Cross-country "run-down": Our fave races in Canada's biggest cities

So you’re thinking of running a race, huh? Whether you are an avid runner or a first-timer, it’s always good to know what kinds of races are happening in your community. Nowadays, marathons come in many different shapes and sizes. Some are rather big (we’re talking 42 to 100km!) and some are rather small. Not every organized race event is a full-out marathon (42km), in fact, some are half-marathons, 10km, 5km, and our favourite — the “fun run.” Fun runs are popping up nationwide with quirky themes that get you across the finish line in a non-competitive, friendly atmosphere. Whatever you’re game for, we want to make sure you’re in the know about what kind of races are out there. We’ve selected our favourite races coming up this summer/fall season, conveniently packaged according to your city!

Note: The races for each city are only a small selection of races you can run. If you see a race that sparks your interest, but isn’t on your city’s list, check out the race website and see if it’s coming to your town!

Click on your city below to go directly to its list of races:

Vancouver
Calgary
Edmonton
Saskatchewan
Winnipeg
Toronto
Ottawa
Montreal

VANCOUVER

Walmart Walk for Miracles
What: Walk, run, donate, or give back any way you’d like to support the Children’s Miracle Network.
Distance: 1km, 5km
When: June 8, 2014
Where: Stanley Park

Tough Mudder Whistler
What: The toughest and muddiest obstacle course in the world. If you make it out alive, you are rewarded an orange Tough Mudder headband and endless bragging rights.
Distance: 18-20km
When: June 21/22, 2014
Where: Whistler Olympic Park

Scotiabank Vancouver Half Marathon
What: Hosting over 7000 people, runners are able to donate or run/walk to support one of the 2014 featured charities.
Distance: 5km, half-marathon
When: June 22, 2014
Where: UBS Thunderbird Arena/Stanley Park Fish House

The Underwear Affair
What: To support the BC Cancer Foundation, dress up in any kind of underwear to raise funds and awareness for cancers below the belt.
Distance: 5km, 10km
When: July 5, 2014
Where: Concord Pacific Parking Lot

Vancouver Pride Run & Walk
What: Kick off Pride Week by running to support these two LGBTQ charitable organizations: Out in Schools and VPS Qmunity Pride Legacy Fund.
Distance: 5km, 10km
When: July 26, 2014
Where: Brockton Oval

Colour Me Rad
What: Both for fun and for charity! Wearing all white, you will be blasted by coloured cornstarch at each section of the race, all while supporting Special Olympics BC.
Distance: 5km
When: August 2, 2014
Where: TBD, keep checking the website!

SeaWheeze Half Marathon
What: Not only can participants run the half-marathon, they are also able to partake in yoga classes, a brunch, and they’ll receive access to the Sunset Festival with headliner Capital Cities. This is one race you do not want to miss!
Distance: Half-marathon
When: August 22/23, 2014
Where: Vancouver Convention Centre

Terry Fox Run
What: Not only do participants raise money for the Terry Fox Foundation, they are also continuing the legend of Terry Fox.
Distance: 5km, 10km
When: September 14, 2014
Where: Stanley Park

Night Race Vancouver
What: Just as the sun sets, over 2500 participants will run through Stanley Park with mandatory headlights (included in cost), and even your own glow necklaces if you’d like! The fun doesn’t stop there as participants are treated with a post-race party with a DJ, light show, and dance party!
Distance: 5km, 10km run/walk
When: September 20, 2014
Where: Stanley Park

CIBC Run for the Cure
What: Either walk or run in support of education, research, awareness, and advocacy initiatives of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation.
Distance: 1km, 5km
When: October 5, 2014
Where: Concord Pacific Place

CALGARY

Walmart Walk for Miracles
What: Walk, run, donate, or give back any way you’d like to support the Children’s Miracle Network.
Distance: 1km, 5km
When: June 8, 2014
Where: Pumphouse Park

Colour Me Rad
What: Both for fun and for charity! Wearing all white, you will be blasted by coloured cornstarch at each section of the race, all while supporting the WinSport Academy.
Distance: 5km
When: June 28, 2014
Where: Canada Olympic Park

Stampede Road Race
What: This year the Stampede Road Race aims to raise funds for Can Praxis, a charity that aims to help veterans suffering with post-traumatic stress disorder and their families.
Distance: 5km, 10km, half-marathon
When: July 6, 2014
Where: Glenmore Track

St. John Ambulance Run & Walk for Life
What: Participants are able to take part in saving lives by running to support St. John Ambulance volunteer first aid responders with necessary supplies and training.
Distance: 5km, 10km
When: August 16, 2014
Where: North Glenmore Park

Sears Great Canadian Run Calgary
What: This 4th annual relay to end kids’ cancer encourages you to get the whole family involved in participating in one of Calgary’s most beautiful and important events this year. Proceeds are donated to The Sears Canada Charitable Foundation associated with SickKids and national pediatric oncology research.
Distance: 100km (completed in relay teams)
When: August 23, 2014
Where: Rock Pointe Church – Bearpaw Location

Race for Pace
What: Lace up and run to support Calgary’s non-profit organization, Pacekids Programs for Children with Motor Disabilities Society.
Distance: 5km, 10km
When: August 23, 2014
Where: Remington Developing Corp.

Urban Venus Deliciously Sweet Run
What: Participants not only get to run the scenic river route, they also get to indulge in cupcakes, mini manicures and take home treats! This is definitely one race worth taking a second look at.
Distance: 1km, 5km, 10km
When: September 14, 2014
Where: TELUS Spark (Science Centre)

Neon Run
What: Picture flashing neon lights, costumes, and amazing music. Now picture yourself running with a giant party all the way to the finish line only to enjoy a festival at the end? Sounds pretty awesome, right?
Distance: 5km
When: September 20, 2014
Where: Spruce Meadows

Grizzly Ultra Marathon
What: As one of Canada’s most favourite Ultra races, participants are able to run the full Ultra in a team of 5, or tackle it solo!
Distance: 50km
When: October 12, 2014
Where: Canmore Nordic Centre

EDMONTON

The Underwear Affair
What: To support the Alberta Cancer Foundation, dress up in any kind of underwear your heart desires to raise funds and awareness for cancers below the belt.
Distance: 5km, 10km
When: June 14, 2014
Where: Universaide Pavilion

Pets in the Park
What: Treat your pet to a nice, long walk/run you both will love. Even if you don’t own a pet, come on out for the fun! All proceeds are donated to the Edmonton Humane Society.
Distance: 2.5km walk, 5km
When: June 22, 2014
Where: Hawrelak Park

Canada Day Road Race
What: Proudly run for your country this Canada Day at Alberta’s best road race of the year. Not only are you showing off your patriotism, but the funds you raise go to cancer research in Alberta.
Distance: 2km walk/run, 5km, 15km
When: July 1, 2014
Where: Legislature Grounds

Colour Me Rad
What: Both for fun and for charity! Wearing all white, you will be blasted by coloured cornstarch at each section of the race, all while supporting the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Distance: 5km
When: July 5, 2014
Where: Edmonton Expo Centre at Northlands

Edmonton Marathon
What: For the 22nd anniversary of the Edmonton Marathon, participants run across the beautiful River Valley and through the most historic and scenic neighbourhood’s Edmonton has to offer. Runners have the option to donate to KidSport and are able to qualify for the Boston Marathon in 2015.
Distance: 5km, 10km, half-marathon, marathon
When: August 23/24, 2014
Where: Shaw Conference Centre

G orilla Run
What: This is exactly what it sounds like. Participants dress up in full-out gorilla suits to fundraise for the Mountain Gorilla Conservation Fund to help save the world’s last remaining gorillas!
Distance: 5km
When: September 6, 2014
Where: Corbett Field

Rotary Run for Life
What: The Rotary Clubs of Stony Plain, Spruce Grove, and Parklands After Dark team up with the Coordinated Suicide Prevention Program to raise awareness in the community. Run the Rotary Run for Life to support suicide prevention and awareness.
Distance: 5km, 10km, half-marathon
When: September 14, 2014
Where: Stony Plain Exhibition Park

Running Room Fall Classic
What: Come join in on one of Edmonton’s longest lasting running events. Not only will you be a part of the tradition, runners are also supporting the Alberta Easter Seals who help people with accessibility, mobility, and future independence.
Distance: 5 miles, 10 miles
When: October 19, 2014
Where: 109 Street Running Room

Tuxedos, Gowns, and Hot Dogs
What: Whether you want to rock a full out gown, tux, suit, or even a wedding dress, it is totally acceptable for this race — in fact, it’s mandatory! After your fancy run, an abundance of hot dogs are waiting for you at the finish line. Make sure to bring non-perishable food to donate to the Edmonton Food Bank for families and individuals preparing for the holidays!
Distance: 10km
When: November (TBD)
Where: Kinsmen Field House

SASKATCHEWAN

Bridge City Boogie
What: This run donates 100% of its proceeds to their charities. This year the charities are Postmedia Raise-a-Reader, Boys and Girls Clubs of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan Children’s Festival, and Saskatoon Crisis Nursery.
Distance: 2km, 5km, 20km
When: June 8, 2014
Where: Prairieland Park and Diefenbaker Park

Summit Run
What: This run was started with the intent to promote healthy lifestyles — and to get Prince Albert on the map for having one of the most beautiful runs in Saskatchewan. The course dips into the beautiful North Saskatchewan River and funds are donated to local charities.
Distance: 2km, 5km, 10km, half-marathon
When: June 14, 2014
Where: River St. E and 13th Avenue

The A-Moose-Ing Race
What: This is more than a marathon: this citywide race is a series of obstacles you and a partner push through to meet the finish line. Think of it as the Saskatoon version of The Amazing Race. This adventure also raises money to support the Kidney Foundation of Canada.
Distance: There isn’t a specified distance, however it takes approximately 5 hours to complete.
When: July 5, 2014
Where: AE Peacock Collegiate

Dirty Donkey Mud Run
What: Tackle a course of obstacles while getting down and dirty — and raising money for United Way!
Distance: 5km
When: July 5, 2014
Where: Blackstrap Provincial Park

Changing Lives 5K-10K Run
What: Not only can participants change lives by donating their run and ticket proceeds to the Autoimmune Disease Foundation of Canada, runners are also given a Running Room $25 gift card for your dedicated support!
Distance: 5km, 10km
When: August 16, 2014
Where: Wascana Centre

Queen City Marathon
What: Why not tour this incredible city with one of the biggest marathons in Saskatchewan? This Boston Marathon-qualifier brings in thousands of people a year, and even offers a pasta party. Let me repeat…pasta party!
Distance: 5km, relay, half-marathon, marathon
When: September 7, 2014
Where: T.C. Douglas Building

Mogathon
What: Renowned for being “Saskatchewan’s most exciting run of the year”, participants are able to partake in any dose of marathon they want! Proceeds are donated to the St. Paul’s Hospital and the following charities: Children’s Wish Foundation and the SPCA.
Distance: 2km, 5km, 10km, half-marathon, 30km, 30km relay
When: September 20, 2014
Where: Friendship Park

Outter Limits Fun Run
What: To accompany your run, participants are treated to live entertainment, food and drinks, prizes, and a silent auction. Proceeds are donated to the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society and the Waskesiu Foundation “Bears on the Beach.”
Distance: 5km, 10km
When: September 27, 2014
Where: Elkridge Resort

(ZOC) Zombie Obstacle Challenge Regina
What: Ever wonder what it would be like to be in the midst of a zombie apocalypse? Well, here is your chance to find out! Participants are chased to the finish line by “zombies,” who are trying to take your provided flags. Will you be able to survive?
Distance: 5km
When: September 27, 2014
Where: Rambler Park

WINNIPEG

Manitoba Marathon
What: This event was inspired by a tragic story and a man who won’t let history repeat itself. The Manitoba Marathon was born to support Manitobans that live with intellectual disabilities. With a simple donation or pledge form, you can support the run’s cause to build a better community.
Distance: 2.6 miles, 10km, relay, half-marathon, marathon
When: June 15, 2014
Where: University of Manitoba

Fairmont Paws in Motion Super Hero Run
What: Not only can you bring your pet along with you, owners are encouraged to dress up as their favourite superheroes to support the Manitoba Humane Society.
Distance: 5km (with pets), 5km, 10km (humans only)
When: June 22, 2014
Where: Assiniboine Park

Colour Me Rad
What: Both for fun and for charity! Wearing all white, you will be blasted by coloured cornstarch at each section of the race, all while supporting St. Amant.
Distance: 5k
When: July 19, 2014
Where: Red River Exhibition Park

Dirty Donkey Mud Run
What: Tackle a course of obstacles while getting down and dirty, and raising money to support the Children’s Hospital Foundation!
Distance: 5km
When: August 16, 2014
Where: Springhill Winter Sports Park

Kids of Steel Windup
What: Geared at children aged 6-15, this race is designed as an introduction to triathlons in a safe, non-competitive manner.
Distance: 50-500m swim, 1.5km-10km bike, 500m-4km run
When: September 7, 2014
Where: Birds Hill Park East Beach

Hustle for Hunger
What: Help conquer hunger by participating in the Hustle for Hunger. All proceeds from this race will benefit Agape Table.
Distance: 3km, 5km, 10km
When: September 20, 2014
Where: Assiniboine Park

Walk/Run for Wildlife
What: All proceeds of this race will benefit the Prairie Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, plus participants can enjoy a pancake breakfast and even meet with some Wildlife Ambassadors after the race.
Distance: 5km
When: September 20, 2014
Where: St. Vital Park

Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service Half-Marathon
What: Made by runners for runners, all proceeds of this race is donated to the Heart and Stoke Foundation of Manitoba.
Distance: 5km, 10km, half-marathon
When: October 19, 2014
Where: Canadian Mennonite University

TORONTO

Runway Run
What: Pearson Airport opens its doors to thousands of participants who run alongside planes all the way down the runway, while also supporting the Toronto Pearson Community Investment Program.
Distance: 2km walk, 5km run
When: June 14, 2014
Where: Toronto Pearson Airport

Pride and Remembrance Run
What: Get involved in Pride Week by running to support these three LGBTQ charitable organizations: Fife House, Egale Canada Human Rights Trust, and the Pride and Remembrance Foundation.
Distance: 3km walk, 5km run
When: June 28, 2014
Where: Corner of Church and Wellesley

The Beaches Jazz Run Tune Up
What: Prepare your body for the Scotiabank Waterfront Marathon with this “tune-up” training course. Run and win prizes, all while supporting the Toronto East General Hospital Foundation.
Distance: 5km, 10km, 20km
When: July 27, 2014
Where: Martin Goodman Trail

Night Race Toronto
What: Just as the sun sets, over 2500 participants will run through Sunnybrook Park with mandatory headlights (included in cost), and even your own glow necklaces if you’d like! The fun doesn’t stop there as participants are treated with a post-race party with a DJ, light show, and dance party!
Distance: 5km run/walk, 10km run/walk
When: September 6, 2014
Where: Sunnybrook Park

Longboat Toronto Island Run
What: By partaking in one of Toronto’s oldest 10km races, participants are able to run alongside a beautiful island view. In addition, runners can win prizes and enjoy a delicious BBQ.
Distance: 1km kids run, 5km walk/run, 10km
When: September 7, 2014
Where: Toronto Island

Terry Fox Run
What: Not only do participants raise money for the Terry Fox Foundation, they are also continuing the legend of Terry Fox.
Distance: 5km,10km
When: September 14, 2014
Where: There are several locations within Toronto — click here to find a run near you!

Oasis Zoo Run
What: Run a full lap or scenic walk alongside all the animals of the Oasis Zoo. Kids are also encouraged to join the fun with a mini Cub Run!
Distance: Cub run (500m), 5km, 10km
When: September 20, 2014
Where: Toronto Zoo

Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon
What: Renowned for being Canada’s #1 big-time world marathon, participants are able to qualify for the Boston Marathon, run for one of the official charities, or simply partake for the love of running.
Distance: 5km, half-marathon, marathon
When: October 19, 2014
Where: University Avenue

OTTAWA

Ultimate Run for Men’s Cancers
What: Celebrate the men in your life this Father’s Day by running to support cancer research and the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation’s fight to improve regional cancer care.
Distance: 2km, 5km, 10km, 15km
When: June 15, 2014
Where: The Canadian Aviation and Space Museum

Sports 4 Emilies Run
What: This women-only race was originally created to encourage first-timers to get involved with marathon racing. This year all proceed will be donated to the Heart and Stroke Foundation and the Bruyere Foundation.
Distance: 5km, half-marathon
When: June 21, 2014
Where: The Canadian Aviation and Space Museum

Prison Break
What: You are a prisoner and you need to escape. You must go through 30 obstacles without being caught by a guard — and if you succeed, you will be greeted by an ice cold beer to celebrate your victory.
Distance: 5km
When: August 13/14, 2014
Where: Vorlage Ski Resort

Oktoberfest Run
What: Celebrate this Oktoberfest by running to support the Canadian Diabetes Association. Participants are even encouraged to dress up in costume and of course enjoy a celebratory beer after you cross the finish line!
Distance: 5km
When: September 2014 (TBD)
Where: The Arrow and Loon Pub

Canada Army Run
What: As one of Canada’s largest run events, participants of all ages are able to run alongside scenic sites that Canada’s capital has to offer, all while supporting Soldier On and the Military Families Fund. All runners are awarded with dog tag medals after their race.
Distance: 5km, half-marathon
When: September 21, 2014
Where: University of Ottawa

MADD Dash/Strides for Change
What: Help keep your roadways safer by participating in the MADD Dash, a community-based event in support the fight against impaired driving. Proceeds collected will go towards victim services, public education, and public policy.
Distance: 5km, 10km
When: October 19, 2014
Where: Earl of March Secondary School

Ottawa Hospital Rattle Me Bones Race
What: In support of bone cancer research, The Ottawa Hospital is hosting their 21st round of races including the area’s largest zombie run.
Distance: 2km, 5km, 10km
When: October 26, 2014
Where: Ottawa Hospital General Campus

MONTREAL

Tour du Lac Brome
What: Celebrating its 36th anniversary, one of Montreal’s longest-running events offers participants of all levels a chance to take part in this tradition.
Distance : 2km, 5km, 9km, 10km, 20km, 22km
When: June 13/14/15, 2014
Where: Lions Park

Tough Mudder
What: The toughest and muddiest obstacle course in the world. If you make it out alive, you are rewarded an orange Tough Mudder headband and endless bragging rights.
Distance: 18-20km
When: July 12/13, 2014
Where: Roland-Desourdy Airport

Course Fierte Marche
What: Show your love this Pride Week by participating in the third edition of the Pride Race. Proceeds and donations collected will be benefitting the HIV/AIDS Quebec Portal in order to educate the public and support those living with this disease.
Distance: 3km, 5km
When: August 17, 2014
Where: Monument Sir Georges-Etienne Cartier

Lachine Bonneville Half Marathon
What: Get the whole family involved to race along the banks of Lake-St-Louis and Park René-Levesque. All proceeds will be donated to the Montreal Alzheimer Society.
Distance: 1km, 2km, 5km, 10km, 21km
When: August 24, 2014
Where: Lachine Museum Park

Triathlon Esprit de Montreal
What: Taking place in and around the St. Lawrence River, participants are able to swim, bike, and run through this beautiful man-made island.
Distance: Varying
When: September 6, 2014
Where: Ile Notre-Dame

Night Race Montreal
What: Just as the sun sets, over 2500 participants will run through Parc Jean Drapeau with mandatory headlights (included in cost), and even your own glow necklaces if you’d like! The fun doesn’t stop there as participants are treated with a post-race party with a DJ, light show, and dance party!
Distance: 5km, 10km run/walk
When: September 13, 2014
Where: Parc Jean Drapeau

Oasis Rock ‘n’ Roll Montreal Marathon
What: Walk or run the streets of Montreal while music and parties guide your way to the finish line. This race supports the Fondation Tel-Jeunes to help benefit its advocacy services for children.
Distance: 1km, 5km, 10km, half-marathon, marathon
When: September 28, 2014
Where: Parc La Fontaine

Wakefield Moonlight River Run
What: Run under the moonlight around the stunning Gatineau River and party the rest of the night away with live music and dancing as soon as you cross the finish line. This race will be raising funds for local charities, such as the Wakefield Emergency Fund and the Wakefield Grannies.
Distance: 5km, 10km
When: September 27, 2014
Where: Wakefield Community Centre

Let us know which race you will be running this summer by leaving a comment below! Happy running!

TAGS: health, running

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Cross-country "run-down": Our fave races in Canada's biggest cities

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