Inspired by Boston Marathon? Try These Local 5K Races Across Massachusetts

The Boston Marathon is a sought-after event for thousands of individuals from around the world.

Local Races Inspired by the Boston Marathon

As runners hit the pavement, you might feel inspired to cross a finish line of your own. However, 26.2 miles might be a feat you're not willing to take on just yet, if ever. Luckily, there are plenty of local (and shorter) races that you can sign up for this spring and summer.

Here are several local races that friends and family of all ages and abilities can participate in.

Upcoming 5K Races on the SouthCoast and Cape Cod

Unified 5K Hyannis

• April 22, 2026
• 5:30 p.m.
• Sturgis Charter School, 105 W Main St, Hyannis, MA

Race alongside hundreds of adaptive athletes and advocates in celebration of inclusion and ability.

5K and 1-mile courses available.

$35 registration fee

You can register at RunSignup.com.

Mattapoisett Mother's Day 5K

• Sunday, May 10, 2026
• 8:30 a.m.
• Mattapoisett Town Wharf, 8 Water Street, Mattapoisett, MA

Adults, teens and children of all ages are welcome to run or walk this annual 5K, celebrating strong female figures in your life.

Young ones in tow? Feel free to push them in a stroller. Kids in strollers do not need to be registered, only those participating on foot.

$40 registration fee/ $20 for children ages 0-10. Proceeds from the race will be donated to support postpartum mothers on the SouthCoast.

Register at RunSignup.com.

SouthCoast Community Wellness 5K

• Saturday, May 16, 2026
• 9 a.m.
• 1121 Ashley Boulevard, New Bedford, MA

Proceeds from this event will benefit the Greater New Bedford Vocational Technical High School Cross Country Team.

Register at RunSignup.com.

Family-Friendly and Charity Runs

Miles of Kindness: 5K, 10K & 1 Mile Family Walk

• Sunday, June 28, 2026
• 8 a.m.
• 777 Elsbree Street, Fall River, MA

1-mile walk: $20

5k: $30

10k: $40

Proceeds support programs, resources, and community initiatives.

Register for Miles of Kindness at RunSignup.com.

32nd Annual Martha's Vineyard Memorial Road Race

• Sunday, May 24, 2026
• Kids' 1 Mile Fun Run 9:30 a.m.
• 5K Run/Walk 10:30 a.m.
• 2 Oak Bluffs Avenue, Oak Bluffs, MA

Online registration: $30

In-person registration: $35

Kids' Race: $15

Your race fee will help support Hospice and Palliative Care of Martha's Vineyard.

Register at RunSignup.com.

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Summer Races to Add to Your Calendar

11th Annual 4th of July 5K

• Saturday, July 4, 2026
• 7:30 a.m.
• Pilgrim Memorial State Park, Water Street, Plymouth, MA

Proceeds help July 4 Plymouth Inc, the company that puts on the parade and fireworks display.

Adults 18+: $30

Students (11-17): $25

Child (10 & under) and Seniors (70+): $20

Register at SouthShoreRace.com.