NC Fossil Fest 5K
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NC Fossil Fest 5K
The NC Fossil Fest 5K is a community running event held in the Town of Aurora, North Carolina. This event supports the nonprofit Aurora Fossil Museum, with proceeds benefiting the institution's educational and preservation efforts. Participants have the option to take part in two different formats:
- 5K (In-person race)
- 5K (Virtual race)
The in-person race takes place on the streets of Aurora. Runners can collect their race bibs on the morning of the event directly in front of the Aurora Fossil Museum. Designated festival parking is available in grass lots located south of Main Street. Following the conclusion of the timed event, participants can access the various activities of the North Carolina Fossil Festival, including fossil digging, educational booths, and food and product vendors.
The virtual race option allows participants to complete the distance at their own location over a period of two weeks in mid-to-late May. Virtual participants receive their event materials via mail for an additional shipping fee.
Participants who register by April 22nd receive a 2026 North Carolina Fossil Festival T-shirt. All finishers, including both in-person and virtual runners, are awarded a custom finisher's medal. In-person runners are eligible for time-based awards, which are presented to the top three overall male and female finishers, as well as the top three finishers in various age groups. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.