The Pemberton 24, held on September 18, 2026, in Salisbury, MD, offers a truly unique challenge for runners: a 24-hour "Festival of 5Ks" on the scenic trails of Pemberton Park. This one-of-a-kind endurance event invites participants, whether solo or in four-person teams, to complete as many 5K loops as they dare, with a new race starting precisely every hour on the hour for 24 continuous hours. The course itself is a 5K trail winding through Pemberton Park, featuring unpaved terrain with roots, ruts, and rocks, and often includes dynamic water crossings that add an extra layer of challenge and excitement. Typical race day conditions in mid-September feature highs around 79°F and lows near 60°F, with a low chance of precipitation.

Runners embrace a lively, festival-like atmosphere at The Pemberton 24, with dedicated areas to set up camp and rest or socialize between loops. A well-stocked aid station at the start/finish line keeps participants fueled with cold water, a variety of snacks, gels, chips, and sodas, plus unexpected surprises throughout the event. Participants are encouraged to bring their own hydration vessels for this cupless race, along with a headlamp for nighttime treks and a chair for essential recovery. This event eschews traditional chip timing for a point-based system that rewards not just completion of each 5K, but also top placements and late-night efforts, with a special bonus for those who conquer all 24 loops. The camaraderie and shared experience are consistently highlighted by past participants, making The Pemberton 24 an unforgettable test of endurance and spirit.