Candy Cane 10K - Alexandria
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2026 Candy Cane 5k and 10k
The event on December 19 is a road race at Belle Haven Park in Alexandria, Virginia. Distances offered include:
- 5k
- 10k
The course follows a paved path along the Mount Vernon Trail with river views of the Potomac. The route has minimal elevation change. The 5k is an out-and-back route that continues along the Mount Vernon Trail. The 10k follows the same route and continues an additional 1.55 miles before turning back for a second out-and-back segment.
The race is chip timed. Participants receive a finisher’s medal and a technical event shirt. Water stations are provided along the courses: four stations on the 10k at approximately miles 0.9, 2.5, 4, and 5.55, and two stations on the 5k at approximately miles 0.9 and 2.5. Gatorade will be available at some stations. Restrooms are available at the on-site facility.
Awards are given to the top three men and women overall and to first and second place male and female in these age groups: 19 and under, 20–29, 30–39, 40–49, 50–59, 60–69, and 70 and over. Top three overall finishers are not eligible for age-group prizes.
The race counts points toward the Year-Long 5k, 10k, and Back of the Pack series and toward the Fall Series. A virtual race option is available. Packet pickup is offered at Road Runner Sports on the Friday before the race and also at the event. Live results are posted on Athlinks and via a race-day QR code.
The event benefits The Academic Research Institute in Iraq, an organization that supports multidisciplinary research and collaboration related to Iraq. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
