Oktoberfest 5-Miler

OCT

25

2026

Run the Oktoberfest 5 Miler in Columbia on October 25, 2026 with in person or virtual options. Enjoy a scenic Lake Elkhorn course, costume contest with Altra shoes, post race treats and beer while supporting Bridges to Housing Stability.

Sun 25 Oct 2026

Columbia, Maryland

Registration

5 miles

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Event overview

The Oktoberfest 5-Miler presented by Altra takes place on Sunday, October 25, 2026 in Columbia, Maryland. The event offers two options: a 5-Miler and a Virtual 5-Miler. The race is managed by Charm City Run Events and benefits Bridges to Housing Stability, a local charity focused on affordable housing and homelessness prevention in Howard County.

Course, amenities and logistics

The in-person course starts at Charm City Run - Columbia (7090 Deepage Drive) and runs around Lake Elkhorn, crossing several wooden bridges and featuring water views and autumn foliage. The event includes a costume contest with a prize of a pair of Altra shoes. All registrants receive a race-themed finisher medal, an Oktoberfest shirt, on-course aid station support, post-race snacks, and a complimentary drink from Black Flag Brewing Company for participants aged 21 and over. There is a course time limit of 1.5 hours for the in-person 5-Miler. Awards for the in-person event include top three overall male, female and non-binary, top master (40 and over) male and female, and top three male and female in standard age groups; no overall or age-group awards are offered for the virtual event. Packet pickup is scheduled Saturday, October 24 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM and race day from 6:30 AM to 7:50 AM at Charm City Run - Columbia. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.