Fall time in Atlanta brings colder temperatures, gorgeous foliage and traditions that bring the entire family together. Metro Atlanta is a booming area for fall events from festivals, funfairs and community extravaganzas. As 2021 comes to a close, now is the perfect time to focus on new year’s resolutions before the clock runs out! From spirited 5k trots through historic downtowns to supporting local charities, metro Atlanta is a great place to give back and enjoy the season while also crushing your 2021 fitness goals and getting a jump start on those 2022 New Year’s resolutions.
Spooky Spirits in Suwanee – October 16
The Spooky Spirits 5k, presented by the award-winning Suwanee Wine Fest, is a Peachtree Road Race qualifier and a unique spin on Halloween 5k events. The first annual event takes place on October 16 in Suwanee’s Town Center Park. Runners can run the route nonstop or purchase a ticket with “spirit stops” which provides access to six stops along the course, each featuring a themed 3-ounce cocktail sample. All participating runners over the age of 21 receive a full cocktail after the race to enjoy along with food trucks and vendors. A Spooky Spirits 5k shirt, medal and souvenir glass come with each registration to memorialize the event. Sign up for the one-of-a-kind spooky event and the chance to win awards for best female, male and group costume!
Braselton Zombie 5k Run – October 16
With a course crawling with the undead, runners can either outrun or join the zombie hoard at Braselton’s Zombie Run 5k. On October 16, runners dress up in their best zombie digs for the chance to win top male or female racer, as well as awards for best runner in each age bracket. The event sponsored by the Braselton Downtown Development Authority and the Main Street Board supports, preserves and promotes Braselton as a premier North Georgia destination. Register for the Peachtree Road Race qualifier and celebrate the spooky season!
Spooktacular Chase in Powder Springs – October 23
On October 23, runners unite to support Vision Rehabilitation Services of Georgia (VRS), providing non-medical services to blind or visually impaired individuals in 31 counties across North Georgia. The annual downtown Powder Springs event is a family-friendly Peachtree Road Race qualifier. Dress in costume and enjoy running through historic downtown Powder Springs and the Silver Comet Trail! All racers get a t-shirt and are invited to stay for the post-race brunch. Register today for 5k and 10k options certified by USA Track and Field.
Halloween Half Marathon in Piedmont Park – October 25
To kick off the spooky season, runners from across the metro area come together to participate in the Atlanta Halloween Half Marathon on October 25 in the city’s gorgeous Piedmont Park. Walkers and runners in elaborate costumes participate in the 5k or 13.1-mile race while enjoying the iconic sights of the city. Each participant will receive a Halloween-themed medal and outstanding costumes in each age group has the chance to receive prizes! Runners are encouraged to bring gently used, worn or new sneakers to support Sneakers4Funds, raising money for local and international schools to assist families and lift them out of poverty.
Halloween Howl 5K/1K Fun Run – October 30
The fourth annual Canine Pet Rescue fundraiser/ Halloween Howl 5K takes place on Saturday, October 30 at Little Mulberry Park in Dacula. The race starts at the Fence Road entrance close to Hwy. 324!! This is a Peachtree Road Race Qualifier! 100% of all entrance fees go towards saving dogs, rehabilitating, housing, and placing them in new loving homes. This is SPOOKtacular fun for the whole family!! Costumes are optional and encouraged! Costume contests for kids, adults and dogs make this a fun event. No Refunds since this is a charity event.
Turkey Chase in Downtown Acworth – November 20
Before enjoying turkey at the dining table, residents and visitors to Acworth participate in the Turkey Chase on November 20, an event sponsored by the City of Acworth Recreation Department. Runners follow a stunning route starting in the city center, along the shores of Lake Acworth and finish in the heart of downtown. Each runner is required to bring a nonperishable item to receive a race number. All nonperishable goods and a portion of proceeds support the Tackle Hunger Program and provide donations to local food charities. A 5k fun run, 2k walk and a “Little Pilgrim” Trot for children five and under are available.
MUST Ministries Annual Gobble Jog – November 25
The 19th annual Gobble Jog presented by MUST Ministries takes place on Thanksgiving at the historic Marietta Square for runners of all ages and abilities. Timed and untimed 5k and 10k races are available for sign-up and all runners are encouraged to dress up to continue the fun! In 2019, over 10,000 participants from 41 states participated in the record-breaking event. The virtual participants, phantom runners, also receive an event t-shirt and have the ability to complete the race on their preferred track! Sign up today to support local charity MUST Ministries and participate in the popular Thanksgiving event.