5K, 10K, Half & Full Marathons
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5k races
Name City Date Website Uptown Classic 5K & Family Fun Run The 5K race takes place in Audubon Park and also consists of a half-mile family fun run. Fun for the all ages, the race also features a family registration discount. The half-mile run starts at 8:30 a.m. with the 5K beginning at 8:45 a.m. Includes chip timing and pre-registered participants receive a t-shirt.see more detailsNew Orleans 18 February 2018 NOLA Running 2018 Brother Eldon 5K An inexpensive 5K that also includes a 1-mile run or walk. The 5K begins at 8:30 a.m. Registration for adults costs $25, with discounts for students.see more detailsBaton Rouge 24 February 2018 Catholic High Ruby Slipper 5K & Youth Run This year is the 10 year anniversary of the Ruby Slipper Run. The top 500 5K finishers will receive a customized finishers medal. At the finish runners and walkers can enjoy food courtesy of the Ruby Slipper Cafe. Beer will also be served at the finish.see more detailsNew Orleans 25 February 2018 NOLA Running New Orleans Foam Glow 5K A fun event for friends to take part in together. Cost is $20 until February 11th when the fee increases. Takes place in the evening so everyone can see the light that comes after being sprayed with glowing foam. The race begins at 6:30 p.m. Participants can choose to run or walk.see more detailsNew Orleans 3 March 2018 Foam Glow Freret 5K The 5th iteration of this event includes a 5K and a half-mile run. The goal is to promote active living and family fitness. Entry gets participants a t-shirt, finish line refreshments, entertainment, and much more.see more detailsBaton Rouge 14 April 2018 JLNO The Color Run Wear a white t-shirt and expect to finish covered in colorful dust. The Color Run is a fun event to run with a friend. Participants can choose from different kits when registering to get their hands on an awesome unicorn race medal, lightning bolt t-shirt, and more.see more detailsBaton Rouge 18 May 2019 The Color Run Running of the Bears 5K Run/Walk The race takes place in Downtown Franklin at the Courthouse Square. Pre-register before April 18th to get your hands on a $5.00 discount and a guaranteed race shirt. Event is part of the Bayou Teche Black Bear Festival in Franklin.see more detailsDowntown Franklin 13 April 2019 bayoutechebearfest.org 9th Annual Active For Autism 5K This 5K benefits families in the area and aims to raise awareness for autism. The race starts at 8 a.m. and participants can either run or walk the course.see more detailsBaton Rouge 5 May 2018 fhfbr.org The Great Huey P. Long Bridge Run 5K A 5K with a wonderful course that runs over the Huey P. Long Bridge. It's worth running just to get a look at the views from the bridge. At the finish, runners get entertainment and yummy food. Race day fee is $45 so register early to get a significant discount. A great mother's day race to run with any mom in your life.see more detailsBridge City 11 May 2019 Huey P Run Santa’s Hot Chocolate Run If you're the kind of runner who tries to stay active even in the off-season, why not get festive with a holiday-themed 5K event that takes place in Lake Charles. Hosted by the Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana.see more detailsLake Charles 1 December 2018 Literacy SW LA A Run & Walk Through History 5K & 1K Run & Walk New Orleans 31 March 2019 Nola Running UNITED WAY OF ST. CHARLES BRIDGE RUN St. Charles 6 April 2019 Nola Running Need for Speed 5k New Orleans 13 April 2019 Nola Running Reveille at Oak Alley 5K & 1/2 Mile Run & Walk Vacherie 18 May 2019 Nola Running Fat Boy Nola Marathon 25 May 2019 Nola Running Cajun Country Run Lafayette 14 December 2019 Cajun Country About 5k races
A 5k is the shortest of the common running event distances researched on Runnerclick, consisting of 3.1 miles (5 kilometers). These events can either be competitive or social, depending on the particular one you are looking into. They are the most popular of road running events because of their relatively short distance which allows not only the seasoned runners to run, but novice runners, joggers, and new-comers as well.
Read moreRead lessHow did we choose the best 5k races in Louisiana?
We checked what races in Louisiana runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the races in Louisiana was also considered. Other factors include how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is.
What are the best 5Ks in New Orleans?
There are many to choose from here as New Orleans is host to many 5k races throughout its many communities. Some of these are charity events for fundraising, some fun runs, and other racing events but it all comes down to the runners. Some of the notable 5k races in Louisiana include the New Orleans Foam Glow 5K and the Ruby Slipper 5K.
What are the best 5Ks in New Orleans?
Baton Rouge is host to many 5K races, including the Active for Autism 5K, the Freret 5K, and The Color Run.
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10k races
Name City Date Website Mardi Gras Mambo The Mardis Gras themed event includes 10K and 15K routes. For younger participants, there's also a 1-mile fun run. The fun run starts at 8:00 a.m. while the longer distance events begin a half hour later. Post-race a host of vendors will be on site with a variety of food and refreshments.see more detailsBaton Rouge 17 February 2018 Run Mambo The Pie Run Mmmmm pie. Hungry? You will be after this 10K event. Participants can also run the 5K or the 1/2 mile run. Takes place at Southfield School and there's a reason it's called the Pie run. At the finish, runners get served up some delicious strawberry pie! Proceeds go to Southfield School.see more detailsShreveport 24 February 2018 Run Signup Red River Run The race takes place in Big Island park and begins at 8:00 a.m. This year is the 20th iteration of the 10K. A new event has also been included for 2018, a 1-mile event that encourages participants to run with their dogs. All doggie finishers get a tasty treat. This 10K is one of the races in Louisiana that are perfect for PR and is USATF certified. If you finish in the top 50 you'll get a special race mug as a gift.see more detailsAlexandria 9 March 2019 Red River Run Shamrock Run For those who want to celebrate Saint Patrick's Day with some physical activity, the Shamrock Run includes a 5K, 10K, and 1-mile fun run. Takes place at the city's University campus the run also includes a fun costume contest. Runners can also try to 'Outrun the Leprechaun'. 5 and 10K races begin at 8:30 a.m. All the proceeds will be given to local charities.see more detailsHammond 16 March 2019 Hammond Rotary Warrior Run Includes a 5K and 10K event, walkers are welcome. Takes place in Veterans Park the event proceeds go to local Veterans in Shreveport. Awards will go to overall winners and top age group finishers. 10K participants will run the 3.1-mile course twice.see more detailsShreveport 16 March 2019 Run Signup Run to the Cross Runners or walkers can choose to participate in either a 5K or 10K event. Both races begin at 8:15 a.m. and at the finish, there will be food and refreshments. The course features gently rolling hills so expect a bit of a challenge.see more detailsCalhoun 13 April 2019 Active Crescent City Classic 10K A 10K with a bit of history. This year is the 40th edition of the CCC 10K. Runners and walkers are welcome to the race that starts in Downtown NOLA. You can't register on race day so make sure to pre-register. This is one of the races in Louisiana that includes chip timing and finishers get a medal.see more detailsNew Orleans 20 April 2019 Crescent City Classic 10K Lighthouse Run A fall race where participants can run or walk the challenging course. Why is it a tough course? It's entirely run on the sand! The race is an evening race so it starts at 4:30 p.m. All proceeds go to the Cameron Preservation Alliance. Instead of a t-shirt, participants will get a beach towel, perfectly fitting for an event run on the beach. Age group and overall awards will be handed out as well.see more detailsCameron 19 October 2019 runsignup.com/Race/LA/Cameron/LighthouseRun?aflt_token=vkmwDmweQ4iCYn8otSOOnKQ3vCO8buOw Cajun Country Run This race is one of the oldest races in Louisiana. Courses at USATF certified and take place on trails. Top three male and female finishers will receive unique alligator head trophies. All participants get finishers medals, too. Participants can also opt to try their hand at finishing the race dressed as Santa. Judges will be on hand to make the hard decision of who is the best dressed Santa Claus.see more detailsAcadiana Park 14 December 2019 Cajun Country Run About 10k races
A 10k is one of the most common running event distances, consisting of 6.2 miles (10 kilometers). These events can either be competitive or more for fun, depending on the particular one you are looking into. They are twice the distance of the 5k and still relatively short in distance. Fewer runners tend to participate then the 5k, but these events still get a lot of not only seasoned runners but novice runners and joggers in attendance.
Read moreRead lessHow did we choose the best 10k races in Louisiana?
We checked what races in Louisiana runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the races in Louisiana was also considered. Other factors include how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is.
What are the best 10K races in Louisiana?
There are many to choose from here as Louisiana is host to many 10k races throughout its many communities. Some of these races in Louisiana are charity events for fundraising, some fun runs, and other racing events but it all comes down to the runners. In Baton Rouge, you can run the Mardi Gras 10K, while the Cajun Country Run takes place in Acadiana Park. There are many more 10K races in Louisiana, so you are sure to find one you enjoy.
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Half marathons
Name City Date Website Humana Rock ’N’ Roll New Orleans Half Marathon Part of the well-known Rock N' Roll race series, this event brings some NOLA flavor to the half marathon distance. Music, a flat course, and a beautiful route through New Orleans make this one of the best races in Louisiana. The half-marathon takes place on Sunday at 7:30 a.m.see more detailsNew Orleans 8 February 2019 Run Rock N' Roll Amazing Half Marathon The half-marathon event begins at 7:00 a.m. at the North Boulevard Town Square. Walkers are welcome thanks to a 4 hour course time limit. Plenty of aid stations will be available for participants and participants can even run or walk with a stroller. The event weekend also includes a 5K, 10K, and various kids races.see more detailsBaton Rouge 11 March 2018 Amazing Half Heels Up Half The half-marathon event can be run solo or as part of a relay team. The race start is at 7:30 a.m. and features a time limit of 3.5 hours. Racers will be chip timed and finishers will receive participant medals.see more detailsSouth Shreveport 16 March 2019 The Hub Ministry Q50 Sunset Gulf Half Marathon Runners can choose to do the full half-marathon or run the 6.5-mile course. Expect a bit of a challenge since the route is run on packed sand. The out-and-back course begins and ends at Grand Isle State Park beach. The half-marathon begins at 5:00 p.m. Participants are warned that they must bring their own water bottle or vessel to be able to drink from the aid stations.see more detailsGrand Isle State Park 6 April 2019 Q50 Races Best Damn Race Half Marathon The Half-Marathon starts at 7:15 a.m. Participants get a t-shirt, a medal when they finish, and free refreshments at the finish line. There is also a 5K event taking place the same day. The time limit for the half is 3.5 hours.see more detailsNew Orleans 24 March 2019 Best Damn Race Heroes Run Half Marathon The race proceeds go to benefit local heroes (e.g. first responders and military heroes). The October takes place at the Shreveport Convention Center and begins at 7:30 a.m. The course is a looped route that weaves through the downtown area. Finishers get a medal and get entry into the post-race party, which includes food, refreshments, and beer.see more detailsShreveport 26 October 2019 Bg Racing Big Easy Running Festival Half Marathon Half Marathon that finishes right by the NOLA Museum of Art. Post-race party includes entertainment, refreshments, and alcoholic beverages for those of drinking age. The perfect half if you want to explore NOLA on the run.see more detailsNew Orleans 24 November 2019 Big Easy Run Fest Cajun Country Run Lafayette 14 December 2019 Cajun Country Run About Half marathons
A Half Marathon event consists of running 13 miles (21 kilometers) and as the label suggests, is half of a standard Marathon which is a total of 26 miles. The popularity, participants of the half marathon distance and its events have significantly grown since the early 2000s and they continue to do so, with massive events popping up all over the states. The growth rate of participants for the half distance is currently higher than that of the full.
Read moreRead lessHow did we choose the best Half Marathon races in Lousiana?
We checked what races in Louisiana runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the course was also considered. Other factors include how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is.
What are the best Half Marathon races in Louisiana?
There are many races in Louisiana to choose from, as it is host to many Half Marathon races throughout its many cities and communities. Some of these races in Louisiana are charity events for fundraising, some fun runs, and other racing events but it all comes down to the runners. Some of the notable Half Marathon races in Louisiana include the Big Easy Running Festival Half Marathon in New Orleans, the Amazing Half Marathon in Baton Rouge, and the Heels Up Half in Shreveport.
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Marathons
Name City Date Website Humana Rock ’N’ Roll New Orleans Marathon Part of the well-known Rock N' Roll races in Louisiana, this event brings some NOLA flavor to the marathon distance. Music, a flat course, and a beautiful route through New Orleans make this one of the best races in Louisiana. The Marathon takes place on Sunday at 7:30 a.m.see more detailsNew Orleans 4 March 2018 Run Rock N' Roll Lafayette General Zydeco Marathon This race is one of the races in Louisiana that features a USATF certified course and runners can choose to participate in the full as a relay team of 4. Racers will be chip timed and will have access to a gear check area. Pacers will be available, as well. The Marathon includes 451 feet of elevation gain through a scenic course. Finishers get a medal and will arrive in the sound of live music at the finish.see more detailsLafayette 4 March 2018 Zydeco Marathon 3rd Annual Cotton Land Marathon The 3rd edition of this marathon features a gorgeous looped route that runners will have to run twice. The route is USTAF Certified and for those who have their eye on Boston, it's a qualifying race. The Marathon starts at 7:30 a.m. in Kiroli Park.see more detailsWest Monroe 11 November 2018 Event Brite Louisiana Marathon Plan your 2019 race calendar right now and sign up for the Louisiana Marathon. The race sells out quickly every year and is popular thanks to its bright and eventful atmosphere. Runners get a shirt, goodie bag, race medal and access to food and beer at the finish. Not ready for the full marathon just yet? The weekend includes a half marathon, 10K, and 5K, too.see more detailsBaton Rouge 20 January 2019 The Louisiana Marathon About Marathons
Marathon events consist of 26 miles (42 kilometers) and the courses are typically laid out through roads. Starting in the Olympics in the early 1900's, marathons have quickly picked up in popularity and most long distance runners subscribe to this distance. In 2017 there are currently more than 800 running events being held, and that number is consistently growing.
Read moreRead lessHow did we choose the best Marathon races in Lousiana?
We checked what races in Louisiana runners looked for the most and we compared statistics on how many runners held interest in any given event. Feedback left by runners who participated in the races in Louisiana was also considered. Other factors include how long the course has been around, the bling and medals, what runners thought of them and how scenic the course is. Many runners also expressed interest in the "goodies" and sponsorship gifts at the finish line. This can vary from running shoes to resistance bands, headphones and much more.
What are the best Marathon races in Louisiana?
There are many to choose from here as the state of Louisiana is host to many Marathon races throughout its many cities and communities. Some of these are charity events for fundraising, some fun runs, and other racing events but it all comes down to the runners. Some of the notable Marathon races in Louisiana include the Louisiana Marathon in Baton Rouge, the Cotton Land Marathon in West Monroe, and the Lafayette General Zydeco Marathon in Lafayette.
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Ultra Races
Name City Date Website Red Dirt Ultra This trail ultra offers 50K, 100K, and 100 mile race distances. The beautiful area will have participants wanting to stay longer post-race to visit and enjoy what Natchitoches has to offer. The 100 mile and 100 K begin at 6:00 a.m. and the 50K at 7 a.m. Pacers are allowed for the 100K and 100 mile. Expect a challenging but beautiful course with a few stream crossings. The course is a 50K loop so 100K and 100 mile participants will be doing multiple loops to finish. Headphones are allowed for this race since the trail is not single track, but race organizers urge runners to keep the volume low.see more detailsKisatchie National Forest 29 February 2020 Red Dirt Ultra Beast for a Day Ultras Not sure how far you want to run? Want to test your mettle and see what you're made of? Choose from 12, 6, or 3 hour events. Runners can also just choose to run the 5.62 mile loop once. The hilly course features technical trail and will feature a fully stocked start/finish aid station and an unmanned hydration station midway through. Finishers get a snuggly soft t-shirt to wear post-race. Runners can choose to pitch a tent near the start and camp out.see more detailsSt. Francisville 11 May 2019 Ultra Signup Children of the Cane 100 The course runs through sugar plantations and offers 50K, 100K or 100 mile events. The creepy name might scare you away but let's face it, if you're brave enough to run this long, you can handle some spookiness. 50K runners have a 12 hour time limit, 100K-ers get 20 hours to finish and 100 milers have to be done in 30 hours. Pacers are only allowed for the 100 mile event after a certain point.Camping is available for participants for a small charge. The course is flat but not easy! Don't be fooled!see more detailsPort Allen 6 October 2018 Ultra Signup -
Other Races to Consider
Name City Date Website Just for Miles 3-Day Triathlon & Relay This event benefits the local YMCA and features a bevy of triathlon event options. Choose from a Half Ironman, Olympic Distance Triathlon, and more. Participants can even choose to do one leg of any event. There's something for everyone. Takes place at the BHP Billiton YMCA. Participants can also sign up as a relay team.see more detailsShreveport 9 March 2018 Run Signup Tough Mudder If you don't mind getting a little dirty, consider challenging yourself to a Tough Mudder race. The NOLA race consists of a 10 mile course with more than 20 challenging obstacles. This isn't a race for the faint of heart. Finishers get a medal, headband, and the most well deserved beer they'll likely ever have.see more detailsNew Orleans 17 March 2018 Tough Mudder Chicot Challenge 100 Mile Relay Not sure about taking on a 100 mile on your own? Thankfully, there's the Chicot Challenge. This event is all about relay teams! Choose 1 or more buddies to take part in the relay with you in Chicot State Park. Enjoy the scenery as you run like the wind through the forest and even through swampy areas.see more detailsChicot State Park 24 March 2018 Chicot Challenge BackRoads & Bayous Cross Country Trail Run A trail run where runners can choose from a 10 mile, 3 mile or 1 mile run. Takes place at Lynn Farms in Gilliam. This is the fourth edition of the race. The 10 and 3 mile races begin at 8:00 a.m. Register early to ensure you are allotted a t-shirt. Finishers also get food and drink post-finish.see more detailsGilliam 18 May 2019 Run Signup New Roads Pecan Classic 4 Mile & 1 Mile Run A 4 miler that offers participants a scenic route. There's also a 1 mile fun run where pets are allowed (leashed). The 4 miler begins at 9:15 a.m. The race is part of a larger festival so if you have family who want to come and watch, they'll need to purchase a wristband. You can buy them a spectator pass upon registration.see more detailsNew Roads 27 April 2019 Run Signup Cinco de Trio Louisiana Triathlon 800 mile swim, 18 mile bike ride, and 5K run. Sign-up quick for this triathlon since it usually sells out quickly. Race day is Saturday and the event begins at 7:30 a.m. Six swim waves will enter the water with a cut-off of 8:15 a.m. for the swim. The bike route is an out-and-back and the run is a 5K loop. Various awards will be available including awards for the duathlon and beginner participants.see more detailsFalse River 5 May 2018 Louisiana Tri Soleman Triathlon Inclues a 640 meter swim in open water, 19.3 bike ride, and a 5K run on trails. Begins at 7:00 a.m. Participants can also choose to bike & run the duathlon, instead and skip the swim.see more detailsSunshine 21 July 2019 IM Athlete Celebration in the Oaks 2 Mile Run/Walk Enjoy a quick 2 mile run through New Orleans City Park during the holiday season. The event takes place during the Oak Light Display where runners and walkers can look in awe at the 500,000 lights on display. Plenty of activities mean the event is a great choice for families. Strollers are allowed and participants get free entry to the Botanical Garden. Race begins at 3:00 p.m.see more detailsNew Orleans 8 December 2018
