ShamRock and Roll 5K

Lace up your running shoes for the ShamRock and Roll 5K, Connecticut's premier St. Patrick's Day-themed road race, returning to New Haven on March 1, 2026. This popular event, limited to 1,500 participants, boasts a flat and fast 5K course that begins and ends in front of the iconic Toad's Place, a historic rock and roll venue located at 300 York Street. Runners will enjoy a scenic route that winds by Yale University, up Whitney Avenue, and through the charming East Rock neighborhood. Typical race day conditions in early March offer crisp running weather, with historical highs around 43°F and lows around 27°F, and only an 11% chance of precipitation.

The ShamRock and Roll 5K is renowned for its festive atmosphere, encouraging participants to don their most creative St. Patrick's Day costumes. Beyond the finish line, the celebration continues at Toad's Place with an exciting post-race party featuring live music, an awards ceremony for top finishers and best costumes, and plenty of food and beverages, including a complimentary Heineken Silver or Heineken 0.0 for runners 21 and older. Each entrant also receives a long-sleeve tech tee to commemorate their achievement.

More than just a race, the ShamRock and Roll 5K is a community event with a charitable heart, serving as a significant fundraiser for The Diaper Bank of Connecticut. Runners can contribute by making donations during registration or bringing diapers to packet pickup and on race day, supporting the organization's mission to eliminate diaper need. Join fellow runners for a memorable day of fitness, fun, and philanthropy on this USATF-CT 5K State Championship course.