Get ready to experience the vibrant spirit of Portland's historic Soul District at the MLK Dream Run, taking place on Sunday, September 20, 2026. This annual event, celebrating its 14th year, offers a truly unique and impactful running experience with 15K, 10K, and 5K distances, alongside a Free Kids Race on Saturday. Runners can anticipate typical race day conditions with pleasant highs around 75F and lows around 54F, and only an 8% chance of precipitation, creating ideal weather for hitting the road. The USATF-certified courses, starting and finishing at the Portland Community College Cascade Campus, are known for their road terrain with some hills, winding through historic N/NE Portland neighborhoods, including the artistic Alberta Arts District, past vibrant Mississippi Avenue storefronts, and through picturesque parks like Peninsula and Irvington.

Beyond the scenic routes, the MLK Dream Run stands out as a powerful community fundraiser, fueling small business growth and uplifting youth entrepreneurship within the Soul District Business Association. This race is truly "put on by community to support community," fostering an atmosphere of unity and celebration. Participants rave about the "very very fun" atmosphere, noting the live music at the start/finish, and the inclusive nature with plenty of walkers, making it a non-intimidating experience for all skill levels. Aid stations are strategically placed along the course, including at MLK and Killingsworth, to support runners.

The race weekend kicks off with a lively Saturday celebration featuring a Soul-Ful Vendor Village, live entertainment, food, and opportunities to pick up your packet. On race day, all finishers receive a commemorative swag bag, a Nike race t-shirt, and are rewarded at the finish line with delicious Dave's Killer Bread grilled cheese sandwiches. Top performers even have the chance to win incredible prizes, including round-trip airline tickets from Alaska Airlines for overall fastest male and female winners, and their weight in Widmer Brothers beverages for age-group champions. Join this race for a powerful blend of fitness, community, and purpose, where every stride supports a vital cause.