Kennett Run

The Kennett Run, scheduled for May 16, 2026, in Kennett Square, PA, offers runners a choice between a 10K and a 5K race, alongside other events like the 5K/10K PoweRun, a 1-Mile Walk/Run, and a Kids Pond Run. This long-standing event, founded in 1989, is renowned for its "Small town, BIG race & Strong Community" spirit and has raised over $1,000,000 for local schools and charities, fostering camaraderie and showcasing the charming Southern Chester County scenery. Typical race day conditions in mid-May are pleasant, with highs around 72°F and lows around 52°F, and only a 16% chance of precipitation.

Both the 5K and 10K courses feature a mix of hills and flat terrain, rated as moderately difficult, with approximately 70% of the race taking place on the main streets of Kennett Square and the remaining 30% on Anson Nixon Park trails and roads. The 10K course is a two-lap design of the 5K route, intended to enhance crowd support. All races conveniently start and finish within Anson Nixon Park, with a welcoming downhill glide to the finish line. A unique element of the Kennett Run is the PoweRun option, where participants can reduce their running times by performing bench presses or pull-ups before the race – 30 seconds off per rep for the 5K and 1 minute off per rep for the 10K.

Runners can expect a lively atmosphere with music throughout the event and a celebratory post-race party at Anson Nixon Park, complete with food, beverages (including beer for those 21 and over), and entertainment. Packet pickup is available the day before at the Kennett YMCA and on race day starting at 6:30 AM at the start/finish line in Anson B. Nixon Park. Parking is available at Kennett High School with shuttle bus service to the park, though limited parking is also available at Anson B. Nixon Park on a first-come, first-served basis. The Kennett Run promises a rewarding experience, combining a challenging course with strong community support and festive post-race celebrations.