Bethlehem Running Festival
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2026 Bethlehem Running Festival : overview
The Bethlehem Running Festival takes place October 16-18, 2026, in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (101 Founders Way). The event is presented by Lehigh Valley Health Network and organized by the Pennsylvania Running Company. Courses run through the historic streets of downtown Bethlehem and include passages over the Fahy Bridge and in front of the Steel Stacks.
Events and formats
- 3.8 miles - Trail Run
- Kids Run - 1/4 mile (age 5 and under), 1/2 mile (ages 6-8), 1 mile (ages 9-12)
- 5K
- 10K
- Half marathon - 13.1 miles
- Half marathon relay - teams of 3 running segments of 5 miles, 5 miles, and a 5K
Entry package options include a Triple Play (5K + 10K + Half Marathon) and a Quadruple Play (all four races across the weekend, totaling 26.2 miles). Triple and Quadruple Play finishers receive a 14" limited-edition medal holder.
Entry, swag, awards and charity
Registration opens 10/24; an early window from 10/24 to 10/31 offers the lowest price. All registered runners receive a long sleeve technical T-shirt, an event-specific finisher medal, free downloadable professional photos, and a customized bib if registered by 10/1. Awards include top three overall men and women in each event, masters (40+), and multiple age-group prizes. Time limits apply: 5K - 1 hour; 10K - 1 hour 45 minutes; Half marathon - 3 hours 30 minutes; 3.8-mile trail - 1 hour 30 minutes. A portion of registration fees and 100% of donations benefit the American Cancer Society; the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk follows the 10K. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
