MLK Day 10k
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Event overview
The 2026 MLK Day 5k & 10k takes place on January 19, 2026 at MLK Recreational Park in Silver Spring, MD (1120 Jackson Rd; GPS 39.055567, -76.984736). Distances offered:
- 5k
- 10k
The course is a paved loop around the park that continues onto the Paint Branch Trail and includes a few rolling hills. A virtual race option is offered. The event benefits Semper Fi and America’s Fund.
Logistics and race services
The event is chip timed. Runners receive a finisher medal and a technical (Dri-fit) event shirt. T-shirts are guaranteed for those registered before Jan 7; extra shirts are ordered for later registrants on a first-come, first-served basis. Early registration rates are listed as: 5k $30 until Dec 31 (then $35) and 10k $45 until Dec 31 (then $50); prices increase by $5 on race morning. Packet pickup is available at the event and race day registration is offered; participants are advised to arrive about one hour before their event to check in. Water stations: three along the 10k at approximately mile markers 1.55, 3.1, and 4.65; one along the 5k at about mile 1.55. Gatorade will be available at some stations. Restrooms are located inside the park.
Results are posted live on Athlinks and via a QR code at the race; final results with series points are posted on the organizer’s website on the Monday after the race. Awards are given to the top three men and women overall and to 1st and 2nd place in standard age categories; overall top-three finishers are not eligible for age-group awards. The event uses a Back of the Pack (BOTP) time of 11:30 for series scoring; this is not a cutoff time. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
