Get ready for a spooktacular morning of fitness and fall festivities at the YMCA Pumpkin Run, returning to Irmo, SC, on Saturday, October 17, 2026! This beloved event, a long-standing fixture in the local running community, offers both a challenging 5K and a delightful Kids' 1-Mile Fun Run, making it perfect for the entire family. Typical race day conditions in mid-October feature pleasant highs around 77F and lows around 53F, with only a 10% chance of precipitation, setting the stage for an enjoyable autumn run.

The 5K course, starting and finishing at the Northwest Family YMCA, is known for being a "pretty brutal" test with "multiple tiers of unrelenting hill", often considered on the longer side of certified courses. Runners can expect a fast start with a flat stretch in the parking lot, leading to a slight incline and then a flat to downhill section before confronting the challenging ascents. Along the route, water and trick-or-treat stations provide welcome hydration and a touch of Halloween fun. Embrace the festive spirit by donning your favorite costume and competing for prizes in the popular costume contest.

Beyond the race itself, the YMCA Pumpkin Run transforms into a vibrant Fall Festival. Participants can enjoy the YMCA Spooky Bus, a bounce house, and creative arts & crafts, providing entertainment for all ages. Pets are also welcome to join in the fun. Every 5K participant will receive a commemorative race medal and t-shirt, and your participation supports a fantastic cause, with all proceeds benefiting the YMCA's Annual Campaign to provide scholarships for vital community programs. Packet pickup is available the day before and on race morning at the Northwest Family YMCA, with the Kids' Fun Run kicking off at 8:00 am, followed by the 5K race at 8:30 am.