30+ Best Family-Friendly Races and Walks in Atlanta
Atlanta Track Club
Fresh air, exercise and the opportunity to support a good cause are three great reasons to participate in an organized walk or race with your family. Here are some of our favorite kid-friendly races and walks around metro Atlanta. Check websites for times and advance registration information.
Winter Kid-Friendly Races and Walks in Atlanta
Santa Shuffle 5K & Fun Run
This race begins at Cumming City Center and includes a fun run for ages 10 and younger. Proceeds benefit the National Alliance for Mental Illness of Forsyth, Dawson and Lumpkin. Dec. 24.
2026 Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race
Run the traditional course of the July 4 race – in reverse! For ages 10 and older, this new race begins at Piedmont Park and finishes at Lenox Square. Jan. 3.
MLK Jr. Freedom Run
All ages are welcome to walk or run in this 5K/10K 13.1 race at South Peachtree Creek Trail, which honors the legacy of Dr. King and his enduring commitment to justice, equality, and peace. Jan. 17.
MLK Day 5K
Hosted by the First Baptist Church of Doraville, this race celebrates MLK Day with a diverse community united in fellowship and fitness. Schools, churches and other organizations can register to receive proceeds. Jan. 19.
Atlanta Hot Chocolate Run
Run the 5K or 15K course, which starts at Centennial Olympic Park and passes by some of Atlanta’s most famous landmarks. After the race, head over to the post-run party with music, vendors, and a finisher’s mug of chocolate treats. Feb. 1.
TartanTrot
Bagpipe music kicks off this Scottish-influenced 5K or one-mile fun run organized by Saint Luke’s Presbyterian Church. Proceeds support organizations like Family Promise and Habitat for Humanity. Afterward, a post-race party offers food, games, music and awards. Feb. 7.
Atlanta Mission 5K Race to End Homelessness
“Run in the cold for those who sleep in the cold” – each registration covers one night of shelter and services to someone who would otherwise spend the night outside. The race occurs at Pemberton Place Greenspace and includes a virtual option. Feb. 14.
Cocoa Classic 5K Run
Hosted by The Mount Vernon School, this race is open to racers of all ages and abilities, including strollers and dogs, and supports Shoes That Fit, a nonprofit dedicated to providing new shoes for local children in need. Feb. 14.
Publix Atlanta Marathon
This annual event features a full- and half-marathon, along with a 5K and events just for kids: 50M Dash, 3K or 5K and a Track & Field Zone with an obstacle course. Events are held at the Home Depot Backyard. Feb. 28 and March 1.
Hawks Fast Break 5K
Meet Harry the Hawk, the Flight Crew, 404 Crew, ATL Boom and DJ MoHawk as you make your way around State Farm Arena at the Hawks Fast Break 5K presented by Sharecare. Registration $25 voucher to use toward a ticket to a Hawks game.Ages 8 and older can participate in this event. March 21.
Check back for 2025 dates:
Georgia Aquarium 5K
Designed for all ages, this run/walk/jog starts and finishes at the Georgia Aquarium. There’s also a virtual option; proceeds benefit the Aquarium’s research and conservation initiatives. Participants will receive a finisher medal and Aquarium swag!
Atlanta Dogwood Festival Run for the Arts 5K
Head to Piedmont Park for this annual race benefiting the Atlanta High School Arts Exhibition (AHSAE) program.
Hunger Walk/Run
This annual 5K walk and fun run raises awareness and funds for the Atlanta Community Food Bank and other local organizations that support food pantries, community kitchens and shelters. The event at Home Depot Backyard includes food trucks, games, educational activities and live entertainment.
Tour DeCatur
The Tour DeCatur includes a 5K, one-mile fun run and a Tot Trot; proceeds benefit the Decatur Education Foundation, which provides educational and enrichment opportunities to children and youth across Decatur. All registered kids receive participation medals.
Midweek Mile & Dash
This free event is designed to give kids ages 14 and younger the experience of a cross country event. Held in Blackburn Park, the timed mile will run along the park path, while the dashers will run 50 meters on the lawn near the pavilion.
Brookhaven Cherry Blossom Festival 5K
Benefitting Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, this annual event starts and ends in Blackburn Park and includes individual racers, teams and families with young children. The course opens to walkers immediately after the runners begin.
Water Drop Dash 5K and Fun Run
The Chattahoochee Nature Center celebrates the EPA’s Fix-a-Leak Week with this annual event. Run the flat course along the Chattahoochee River, or participate virtually and report your times. Proceeds from the Water Drop Dash support water conservation education.
Refuge Run
City of Refuge helps people in crisis and this run supports its mission. Participate in a 5K through Atlanta’s historic west side neighborhoods and downtown. It’s a great way to see the city up close!
Pound the Pavement for Peter
This Family 5K Fun Run is in honor of Peter Hopkins, who suffered from a Peroxisomal Disorder (PBD) and lost his life at age 3, to raise awareness and funds to help families and children with disabilities and debilitating diseases.
Spring Kid-Friendly Races and Walks in Atlanta
The Daffodil Dash
This 5K/1mile run/walk is held in memory of the 1.5 million children who died in the Holocaust and in support of children today facing humanitarian crises. Funds raised support Holocaust education and awareness, and help families in remote villages in Darfur, South Sudan and Rwanda.
Atlanta Dogwood Festival Mimosa 5K
Celebrate spring with a morning run, then stay to enjoy the Dogwood Festival. The course begins at the corner of Charles Allen Drive and 10th St.
Tutu Run
Hosted by Griffin Ballet Theatre, the course for this annual 5K run/walk is in the picturesque Third Ward area of Griffin. Don your tutu for the run and join in on a post-run celebration with awards and food vendors.
Feeney’s 5K Fun Run
Run or walk the trails of Legacy Park in this event benefitting the Feeney Legacy Project, which educates on calling 911 and starting CPR, and advocates for Good Samaritan & 911 Medical Amnesty laws. Participants can also run virtually between March 17 and race day.
Zoo Atlanta Run Like Wild 5K
The only run where you might catch a glimpse of lions, elephants or gorillas! Support Zoo Atlanta’s animal care, education and conservation efforts by participating in this 5K race and one-mile family walk.
Move for Grady
Run, walk or cycle in the 5K or 10K and participate in the 1-mile downhill dash. Benefitting Grady Hospital, the course routes through Summerhill and Grant Park neighborhoods. Afterward, kids and families can enjoy more fun with games, a DJ, food and drinks.
Lauren’s Run and Picnic
Hosted by CURE Childhood Cancer, this annual event has raised 4.8 million for childhood cancer research. A 5K and 2K run/walk are followed by a Tot Trot and a family picnic, with food, inflatables, face painting, costumed characters, games, prizes, arts & crafts and more.
Girls on the Run 5K
Family members and friends are invited to join this annual race celebrating Girls on the Run Atlanta, an organization that inspires girls of all abilities to recognize their individual strengths, while building a sense of connection in a team setting.
Spin the District Cycle Race Series
This annual series of cycle criterion races take place in Hapeville, Union City and College Park. The Hapeville and College Park events include races for kids of all ages, and all three events feature block parties with food, games, kids’ activities and more.
Northside Hospital Atlanta Women’s 4 Miler
Women and girls ages 9 and older can take part in this marathon that celebrates women and fitness. Sponsored by the Atlanta Track Club, the run will begin at Lenox Square. Stroller runners will start the race in a dedicated wave.
Bub’s Run Charity 5K
This memorial 5K, 1-mile fun run/walk and tot trot celebrates the life of Cobb County special education student Kelson Loveland, and promotes the joy of inclusion. This year, proceeds benefit Cure Childhood Cancer. The course begins at North Cobb Christian School and follows Main Street/Old 41.
Kirkwood Spring Fling 5K
Great for all ages, the course for this annual road race goes through the historic Kirkwood neighborhood. After the race, join the festivities at the Kirkwood Spring Fling Festival in Bessie Branham Park.
Adidas Atlanta City Games Youth Mile and Dash
Kids ages 6-14 can run the mile race, and ages 6 and younger can participate in the 50-meter dash event. After racing at Piedmont Park, stay to watch the High School Meet of Champions and and other professional races.
Run Like Hell 5K and 1K
Run, jog, or walk through beautiful Oakland Cemetery in this annual event to support its restoration and preservation. Ages 16 and younger can participate in the 1K Run Like Heck Fun Run.
Summer Kid-Friendly Races and Walks in Atlanta
Braves Country 5K
Cross the finish line on the Braves field inside SunTrust Park! Participants in the 5K (ages 8 and older) receive an Atlanta Braves game ticket and can buy additional game tickets at a discounted rate for family and friends. A 50m dash is available for younger runners, too.
Virginia-Highland Summerfest 5K and Tot Trot
Run or walk through the historic Virginia-Highland neighborhood; kids 10 and younger can compete in the Tot Trot and cross their own finish line. Afterward, enjoy the Summerfest, with art, music, food and a Kidsfest area.
Strong4Life Superhero Sprint
Wear superhero costumes and participate in a 5K or one-mile fun run to benefit Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s Strong4Life program. Be sure to stay for the costume contest!
Chattahoochee Nature Center Possum Trot
The point-to-point 10K or one-mile fun run along the Chattahoochee River supports the wildlife and programs of the Chattahoochee Nature Center.
Atlanta HBCU Alliance 5K Run/Walk
This annual race, held in Piedmont Park, raises scholarship funds for metro Atlanta students. In-person and virtual options include a 5K run/walk and kids run/walk for ages 12 and younger.
Microsoft Peachtree Junior
Held in Piedmont Park, the Microsoft Peachtree Junior will feature a Mile (timed) and Dash, with the Mile crossing the same 10th Street finish line as the AJC Peachtree Road Race. The Mile is open to kids ages 6-14, while the Dash is open to kids ages 6 & under. Kids can also participate in STEM activities, compete in the track and field zone, and pose for photos on the photo op wall. July 3.
AJC Peachtree Road Race
Atlanta’s most famous 10K race is a 2-day event this year, with in-person and virtual options. Kids 10 and older can register; race numbers are assigned by lottery. July 4.
5K Stroller Roll Atlanta
Expecting moms, dads and grandparents can participate in this race with a baby jogger or stroller. Participants are encouraged to dress in costumes and decorate their strollers. Presented by It Starts With Me 2, a nonprofit that encourages healthy living for families.
MLB All-Star 4.4 Miler
Honor Hank Aaron’s legacy and celebrate MLB All-Star Week in Atlanta with a 4.4-mile run that starts and finishes at Center Parc Stadium, around the corner from Aaron’s record-setting career with the Atlanta Braves. Race registration includes admission to the Capital One All-Star Village.
Atlanta BeltLine Race Series – Westside 5K-8K
Explore the Westside BeltLine and its historic neighborhoods and enjoy food, fun and freebies at this community race. Proceeds benefit the Atlanta BeltLine Partnership.
Light Up the Corners 4 Mile Run and Twilight Trot
Held at The Forum in Peachtree Corners, this nighttime running party and fundraiser benefits the Fowler YMCA’s “Why it Matters” program, serving youth and families in need. Before and after the race, enjoy food, entertainment, kids’ activities, a DJ, dance party and more.
Because One Matters Splash Dash and Color Run
This family-friendly one-mile event, which supports children in foster care, will have color and bubble stations along the route! After, celebrate on the Lawrenceville Lawn during a Family Fun Day, with music, games and activities.
Atlanta’s Finest 5K
This race offers two kid-friendly options: a one-mile fun run and a 50m dash for the youngest participants. Attendees can view police gear including squad cars, motorcycles and the Mobile Command Unit. Participating families raise awareness and funds for the Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta program.
Magnolia Run & Walk for Epilepsy
Parents, kids and even dogs are welcome at this annual event benefitting the Epilepsy Foundation of Georgia. Run or walk the 5K, held in Sandy Springs in the green space under the King and Queen buildings.
Run for the Park 5K
Kick off Grant Park’s annual Summer Shade Festival with this 5K, Tot Trot and Stroller Stroll. After the event, enjoy music, an artists’ market, food and more.
Labor Day Donut Dash 5K and Munchkin Run
Held at Cumming City Center, this race features a 5K plus a 1K for ages 10 and younger. All participants get a donut when they cross the finish line!
Firefighter 5K
Ages 8 and older are invited to run in this new race to support firefighters and first responders. This family-friendly event starts off at Atlanta Fire Rescue Station 1 and is a chance to run with purpose while benefiting the Atlanta Fire Rescue Foundation.
Paladin Pacer
Pinecrest Academy’s fourth annual Paladin Pacer is open to runners, walkers and hikers and includes a 5K event and a Fun Run. This year, the event will be held on the academy’s 68-acre campus for a trail race for a walk/run in a beautiful natural environment.
Wheelbarrow Festival .5K
Run, walk or stroll through the streets of Reynoldstown in this .5K (.31 mile) race, part of the neighborhood’s annual Wheelbarrow Festival. This short race begins at Upper Lang-Carson Park; afterward, enjoy music, food, games for kids and more.
2025 Wingfoot XC Classic
Youth and high school competitors can register individually or as a team for this annual 3K and 5K event, held in Carterville’s Sam Smith Park.
Fall Kid-Friendly Races and Walks in Atlanta
Easterseals North Georgia Trick or Treat Trot 5K
Run, walk, roll or stroll in this 5K at Pinckneyville Park in Peachtree Corners. The event raises funds and promotes awareness of young children with disabilities in Atlanta and north Georgia. Kids ages 9 and younger can run for free in the Spooky Sprint event and get a special prize.
The Smile Run
Participate in the 5K, Fun Run or Tot Trot at this annual event in Canton, held in memory of Christian Egner. Proceeds from the race will benefit organizations that benefit children, particularly those with special needs.
Paint Gwinnett Pink 5K Walk/Run and Family Fun
This race supports Northside Hospital’s Cancer Institute and includes live entertainment, a fire show and food for participants and their families.
Dyslexia Dash
Organized by the International Dyslexia Association of Georgia, this event recognizes October as Dyslexia Awareness Month. It’s held at Perimeter Mall and includes a 5K run plus a 1-mile fun run for kids.
PNC Atlanta 10 Miler & 5K
Beginning and ending at Atlantic Station, runners and walkers ages 14 and older can run the 10 mile race; ages 8 and older may run the 5K. The course runs through Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood. PNC Atlanta 10 Miler & 5K weekend also includes a youth Mile and Dash.
Running of the Pumpkins 5K
Hosted at Riverside Park in Roswell and benefitting The Cottage School, this flat course is also walker- and stroller- friendly, and is a Peachtree Road Race qualifier. Wear a costume and compete in the costume contest!
Holy Halloween 5K and 1-Mile
Runners of all ages and abilities can participate in this annual race, benefitting vulnerable and at-risk families served by Catholic Charities Atlanta. The race will be held in Brookhaven’s Blackburn Park.
Atlanta BeltLine Race Series
Explore the Eastside BeltLine and its historic neighborhoods and enjoy food, fun and freebies at this community race. Proceeds benefit the Atlanta BeltLine Partnership.
Midweek Mile & Dash
This free event is designed to give kids ages 14 and younger the experience of a cross country event. After running the trails at Legacy Park in Decatur, kids can have fun in the Track & Field Zone.
Turkey Trails 5K-10K
This annual event is designed for runners and walkers of all ages, and features a 5K, 10K, mile run and a kids’ dash. Held in Dacula’s Rabbit Hill Park, there’s also a virtual run option.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium Move With MADD
Team up with the Atlanta Falcons and Atlanta United FC at this race, which has a 5K, Mile and Dash (for ages 7 and younger). The course finishes on the field at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Proceeds benefit MADD Georgia.
Early Bird Turkey Trot – Kennesaw
Choose your distance on the 3.1-mile loop – 5K, 10K, 15K or half-marathon. The event, held on Chastain Meadows Court, benefits the Georgia House Rabbit Society.
Invesco Thanksgiving Day Half-Marathon and 5K
This Atlanta Turkey Day tradition includes a half-marathon, a 5K, a one-mile run, 50m dash and 5K dog/jog stroller wave. Besides the excitement of finishing under the Olympic Rings, participants join post-race festivities in Georgia State Stadium and get medals for running. Check age requirements for each segment.
Marietta Gobble Jog
On Thanksgiving morning, more than 10,000 runners will come to the Marietta Square to participate in the 19th Annual Gobble Jog, benefiting MUST Ministries. Timed 10K and 5K runs, as well as an untimed 5K, 1K and Tot Trot are available.
Running of the Turkeys 5K
Participate live or virtually in this stroller-friendly 5K. The race begins and ends on Canton Street in Roswell; proceeds benefit Friends Of Roswell Police, which supports local families and seniors in need.
Gobble Wobble Alpharetta
Benefiting United Way of Forsyth County, this annual run has a 5Km, 10K, 15k Feast Mode (Run 10k course first, and then 5K course to complete 15K) and a 1K Kids Fun Run for ages 10 and younger.
Five-Star Thanksgiving Turkey Trot
Held in Johns Creek, participants can choose from the 5, 10 and 15K or half marathon. Proceeds benefit the Georgia Alliance for Breast Cancer.
Blue Ridge Turkey Trot
Head to downtown Blue Ridge for this Thanksgiving Day event, designed for racers of all abilities. Registrants are asked to bring a canned donation for the Good Samaritan’s Food Pantry.
Tryptophan 2025
Run or walk in the 5K, 10K, or half-marathon at this annual event benefitting Family Promise of Forsyth County, which serves families who are experiencing homelessness.
Turkey Trot of McDonough
Benefitting Special Olympics of Henry County, this family event has a 1 mile fun run, 5K and 10K, plus a pre-race music celebration.
Gainesville Turkey Trot and Youth Fun Run
Strollers and pets are welcome at this annual event, which features a 5K, 10K, half-marathon and 1-mile fun run. Runners are asked to bring a donation of canned goods to benefit local families in need.
Christmas Star Run and Tree Lighting
All ages are welcome at this annual 5K and fun run, held on the campus of the Christian City residential community. Participants can also enjoy a tree lighting, carolers, the Coca-Cola holiday truck, photos with Santa and more. Proceeds benefit children and families facing challenges such as poverty and homelessness.
Jingle Bell Run
Kids and adults can run or walk to the finish of this 5K or one-mile fun run benefitting the Arthritis Foundation. Along the way, Christmas carolers serenade participants. Dogs are welcome, especially in holiday costume. All participants receive jingle bells to tie to their shoes, so this run is especially fun.
Run the Lights of Life 5K
Run through Life University’s annual holiday light show at this 5K and 1K event. Following the run, participants can enjoy caroling, hot cocoa and more festivities.
