OCNJ First Day 5K Run/Walk
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Event overview
The OCNJ First Day 5K Run/Walk takes place on Thursday, January 1, 2026, in Ocean City, New Jersey. The event is a 5-kilometer (3.1 miles) out-and-back course held on the Ocean City Boardwalk. It is part of Ocean City’s First Night/First Day celebrations.
Registration and fees
Online registration is available in advance. Race-day registration and packet pickup are offered at the Ocean City Music Pier on race day. Fees are listed as $25 through December 24, 2025; $30 from December 25 to December 29; advance registration closes December 29; and race-day registration is $35. Registration includes a First Day Beach Towel for all pre-registered participants and, while supplies last, for race-day registrants; towels are available to the first 600 registrants. Entry fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Proceeds benefit Ocean City Recreation Scholarships and Programs.
Course and awards
The race starts and finishes at the Ocean City Music Pier (Boardwalk at Moorlyn Terrace) and turns around at 23rd Street. Overall awards are given to the top three finishers in Male, Female, and Non-Binary categories based on gun time. Age-group awards (top three) are provided by chip time for the following groups: 9-and-under, 10-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, and 80-and-over. Results from recent years are maintained for reference. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
