From fun runs to full marathons, the Outer Banks is one of the top destinations for running enthusiasts. With a calendar full of exciting opportunities to beat your personal best and a stunning setting in which to do it, if you’re someone who lives for the runner’s high, this blog is for you. Check out the top races in the Outer Banks and start planning your next adventure today!
For more of the Outer Banks year-round top things to do, check out our Free Area Guide!
Top Races in the Outer Banks
Running of the Leprechauns
A St. Patrick’s Day tradition since 2008, the Running of the Leprechauns is your chance to don your green apparel or themed costume and race for first! Participants will receive a medal, delicious Irish stew, and a cold beer. Stick around after the race for music and St. Pat’s fun.
- When: Each year in March
- Where: Nags Head
- Distance: 5k and 10k
St. Patrick’s Day Beer Mile
Limited to 100 participants, the Beer Mile is one of the most beloved races in the Outer Banks. Join the crew of the Brewing Station for some 21+ fun-run action that will kickstart your St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. The mile race is broken up into four quarter-mile heats that each culminate with celebratory beers, meaning the shenanigans just get more interesting as the day goes on. After the races, stick around for a backyard party and more green beer!
- When: March
- Where: Kill Devil Hills
- Distance: 1 mile
Scallywag Race
The Scallywag 5k, 10k, and half-marathon lead runners past some of Ocracoke’s top landmarks like the lighthouse, Silver Lake Harbor, and Spencer’s Woods, where famed pirate Blackbeard met his demise in the shallow offshore waters. Racers of all ages and abilities are welcome to participate, and runners each receive a medal and post-race refreshments.
- When: April
- Where: Ocracoke
- Distance: 5k, 10k, Half-Marathon
Annual Nags Head Woods Run
A wonderful Mother’s Day Weekend tradition, the Nags Head Woods Run invites participants to race through the Nature Conservancy’s Ecological Preserve in support of local charities, youth programs, and military relief efforts.
In addition to the 5k, there’s a fun run option, or you can do a “double” for a 10k.
- When: May
- Where: Kill Devil Hills
- Distance: 5k
OBX Triathlon
Participate as a team or individually when you attempt the OBX Triathlon in September. This two-day event, organized by the Outer Banks Sporting Events (OBSE), offers runners a chance to accomplish an impressive feat with swims in the Croatan Sound, biking along coastal highways and paths, and running through seaside communities.
- When: September
- Where: Manteo
- Distance: Sprint: 750-meter swim, 20-km bike, 5k run | Olympic: 1,500-meter swim, 40-km bike, 10k run | Half-Tri: 1900-meter swim, 90-km bike, half-marathon run.
Towne Bank Outer Banks Marathon and Half-Marathon
If you’ve always wanted to try running a marathon or half, this is the race for you. With a flat course and fall setting, it’s a great race for beginners and first-timers. IN addition to the half and full, the race also features an 8k, 5k, and fun run.
- When: November
- Where: Manteo
- Distance: Half and Full Marathon
Tipsy Turkey Beer Mile
Brought to you by the St. Patrick’s Day Beer Mile crew, the Tipsy Turkey follows the same format, offering four quarter-mile races with breaks for beer in between. Costumes and all other rules apply: limit 100 participants, 21+. Prizes will be awarded for fastest, and most creative costume.
- When: November
- Where: Kill Devil Hills
- Distance: 1 mile
Surfin’ Turkey and Puppy Drum Run
Start Thanksgiving Day with some beautiful Outer Banks running at the Surfin’ Turkey and Puppy Drum Race in Hatteras Village. The race raises money for the Hatteras Island Youth Education Fund and is held rain or shine unless dangerous conditions occur. The race is free for children 12 and under participating in the fun run.
- When: November
- Where: Hatteras
- Distance: quarter-mile and 5k
Outer Banks Gobbler
For more turkey day racing, the Outer Banks Gobbler is guaranteed to help you work up an appetite. Sponsored by the Outer Banks Running Club and Barrier Island Running Events, racers can compete in the 5k or opt for the casual fun run. All participants will receive a commemorative shirt and a light breakfast from Treehouse Coffee Co., provided at the finish line.
- When: November
- Where: Nags Head
- Distance: 1-mile fun run and 5k
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Browse our available Outer Banks vacation rentals and get ready for an incredible getaway today!
