Kentlands/Lakelands 5K Run/Walk

Lace up for the 33rd annual Kentlands/Lakelands 5K Run/Walk on September 5, 2026, in scenic Gaithersburg, MD. This USATF-certified 5K course offers a unique experience, winding and rolling through the award-winning new urbanist communities of Kentlands and Lakelands. Expect a route with modest hills that are engaging for experienced runners yet manageable for novices and walkers alike. Typical race day conditions feature pleasant highs around 79°F and lows near 61°F, with a low 14% chance of precipitation, providing ideal running weather.

Beyond the main 5K event, the day includes shorter distances for younger participants, with a 500M Kids Dash and a 200M Tot Trot, making it a true family affair. The course itself is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, featuring live entertainment from local bands along the route to keep spirits high. Runners will appreciate two well-placed water stops to stay hydrated before crossing a lively finish line on vibrant Main Street. This event is renowned as the most significant 5K in Montgomery County, drawing over 1,500 runners and walkers, plus hundreds of children, along with thousands of spectators.

The excitement continues post-race with a bustling Merchant's Expo on Main Street, offering music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Participants also support local charities, including the City of Gaithersburg Dolores Swoyer Camp Scholarship Fund and Mercy Health Clinic, making every stride count towards a greater cause. Cash prizes await the top three male and female 5K finishers, alongside unique family team awards that add a competitive yet communal twist to this beloved tradition.