As the summer solstice approaches in June, so does a vibrant season of road races across the city. With rising temperatures comes rising excitement, offering runners of all levels a chance to hit the pavement and connect with the local running community.
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a casual supporter, there’s a race to match your pace. Conquer the rolling hills of Forest Park at the NYC Strawberry Fest 5K & 5M, or wind through multiple boroughs at the Brooklyn Queens Brewery Express Half Marathon. These events not only test endurance but also celebrate camaraderie, community and shared motivation.
So grab your sunscreen, throw on your shades, lace up your shoes and check out these can’t-miss summer races happening near you.
LIC Waterfront 5K Run/Walk – Long Island City (Saturday, June 7)
Dash down the Long Island City Waterfront and enjoy the East River views at 9 a.m. The registration fee was $38.98. For younger participants, the Kids Dash was $28.63. While this sought-after 5K is sold out, you can sign up to volunteer as a course marshal, bike marshal, and other supportive positions.
You are also welcome to cheer on the runners or running clubs. On the heels of its tenth anniversary, all proceeds will benefit the Hunters Point Park Conservancy, a volunteer-based nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving green spaces in the neighborhood. All participants will receive a t-shirt.
NYC Strawberry Fest 5K & 5M – Woodhaven (Sunday, June 8)
Enjoy the rolling hills of Forest Park in this 5K and 5M (five-mile) race at 9 a.m. The registration fees for the in-person 5K and 5M are $47.26 and $52.43, respectively. Please note that the fees will increase to $49.33 and $54.50 on race day. The registration fees for the virtual 5K and 5M are $49.33 and $54.50, respectively. If you wish to have your race bib mailed to your address, add $10.35 to the fee.
All proceeds will benefit the Never Stop Running Foundation (NSRF), a nonprofit organization that supports athletic development. After crossing the finish line, runners will enjoy treats from All Round Foods and Waterloo Sparkling Water. Additionally, all participants will receive a strawberry-themed medal and a t-shirt.
Brooklyn Queens Brewery Express Half Marathon – Ridgewood (Saturday, June 14)
Run through the neighborhoods of Brooklyn and Queens at 5 p.m. in this unsanctioned half marathon. Please note that the course is not closed to traffic, so run at your own risk. The registration fee is $100.00, and the price will increase after Saturday, May 31 at 11:59 p.m. The overall male and female winners will receive a cash prize, a custom gift and a pack of beer. The second and third place winners will only receive a pack of beer.
After running 13.1 miles, participants are welcome to enter raffles for custom growlers and other merchandise. Additionally, all participants receive a custom race singlet, a finisher medal, a limited-edition pint glass and pizza slices. For further details, an email will be sent to participants after registration is completed, with another email sent closer to race day.
New York Road Runners Citizens Queens 10K – Corona (Saturday, June 14)
Hosted by New York Road Runners (NYRR), the Queens 10K is one of the NYRR Club Points Races, a series of fun, competitive races where teams across New York City compete for a higher ranking based on points earned. Additionally, the Queens 10K is one of the only two NYRR races held in the borough — the other is the Mindful 5K, which debuted in May 2024. Registered participants race within the parameters of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park before finishing near the Fountain of the Planets.
Please note that this points race is currently sold out. Don’t let that stop you from showing up to cheer for your favorite running team. The race starts at 7:45 a.m. After crossing the finish line, all participants will receive a finisher medal. Additionally, children aged 2 to 18 are welcome to register for the Flushing Meadows Kids Run free of charge.
NSRF Dad Bod 5K & 10K – Rockaway Beach (Sunday, June 15)
Celebrate Father’s Day at the Boardwalk of Rockaway Beach at 9 a.m., where you can enjoy the ocean views in this out-and-back course. The registration fees for the 5K and 10K are $42.08 and $47.26, respectively. The fees are $44.15 for the virtual 5K and $49.33 for the virtual 10K. Please note that a fee increase will be in effect on race day.
After enjoying the breeze, participants will receive treats from All Round Foods and Waterloo Sparkling Water, as well as a t-shirt. All proceeds will benefit the Never Stop Running Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to community involvement and athleticism.
The Flushing NYC Half, 10K and 5K – Corona (Sunday, June 22)
Challenge yourself with this trifecta of races on the pavement of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park at 8 a.m. The registration fees for the 5K, 10K and Half Marathon are $48.70, $64.60 and $101.70, respectively. Please note that registration ends on Saturday, June 21 at 11:59 p.m. To receive your race packet, please arrive at least an hour before the start time. Hydration essentials will be available at certain sections of the course, including power gels and Gatorade. All participants will receive a t-shirt and a finisher’s medal.
