8 5K Races for First-Timers

Maile Proctor
Written by
Maile Proctor
Ready to run your first 5K? Racing can be intimidating, but the sense of accomplishment you'll feel when you cross the finish line is unbeatable. Try one of these eight newbie-friendly races.
9th Annual Jimmy D Memorial 5K Run/Walk
New Brunswick, New Jersey - September 1, 2013
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This beginner-friendly race has a flat, out-and-back course that starts right outside Memorial Stadium in New Brunswick. Finish the 5K on the stadium track and enjoy a post-race barbeque with music, beer, ice cream, cotton candy and more.
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Hickory Flat Out 5K
Canton, Georgia - September 2, 2013
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Run the annual Labor Day race in Canton to raise funds for the Hide and Seek day camp. The flat, out-and-back course is perfect for new runners to ease into the race experience. All registered runners will have a chance to win an iPad at the post-race drawing.
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Kiss Me Dirty
Various Dates and Locations
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The Kiss Me Dirty race series encourages women from all walks of life to get outside, have some fun, get a little dirty, and support a good cause. Proceeds from the race benefit gynecological cancer research. Run through mud, foam, as you weave your way through fun, safe obstacles at this women-only 5K race.
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17th Annual Somerville Homeless Coalition 5K
Somerville, Massachusetts - October 5, 2013
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Run or walk this newbie-friendly, urban 5K for a good cause. Proceeds from the race benefit the Somerville Homeless Coalition. The event is stroller-friendly so you can make race day a family affair. After you finish the 5K, enjoy brunch provided by local Somerville restaurants.
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Great Eastern State Breakout 5K
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - October 12, 2013
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Take a tour of Fairmount and Girard College at this event that benefits the Friends of Eastern State Penitentiary Park, a nonprofit organization that supports the development and maintenance of the park. Sign up as an individual or run as a team, and bring the little ones along for the Kids Fun Run and post-race breakfast.
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Firefly Run
Various Dates and Locations
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Light up the night at this electrifying evening 5K. All participants will receive two LED light bands and a glow-in-the-dark participant bracelet. Feel free to bring additional lights and accessories. Hang out at the post-race party with a costume contest and live music.
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HoBOOken Halloween 5K
Hoboken, New Jersey - October 26, 2013
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Put on your costume, lace up your running shoes, and celebrate Halloween the active way at this holiday 5K. The course is fast, flat and ideal for beginners. Run on the waterfront in Hoboken and experience breathtaking views of the New York City skyline. Bring the mini monsters along for the Scary Scurry Kids' Run.
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Flushing Meadows 5K
New York, New York - November 23, 2013
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Run or walk the third annual Self-Transcendence 5K in Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens. The event is organized on behalf of the park by the Sri Chinmoy Marathon team, which advocates using sports as a means for personal fulfillment. The 5K will be followed by a short kids fun run.
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