The upcoming 2020 races in Kansas City are clearly kicking off a great running decade! 

But with so many options to choose from, how do you know which ones are worth lacing up for?  We’ve got a few suggestions!

Read through now, and let us know which ones you’ll be toeing the starting line at.

January 

Get out of the weather with this fun underground race! The Groundhog Run Benefiting Ability KC features a unique course through the Hunt Midwest SubTropolis, and is believed to be the only 100% underground sanctioned 10K in the nation. But more importantly, it features consistent temperatures of 65 to 68 degrees, making it a nice change from freezing winter races.

February 

Football fans will get a kick out of the Kickoff 5k on February 2! Squeeze in some running before the big game, enjoy tasty tailgate treats, and raise money for Stop Trafficking when you sign up for this race today.

March 

No matter how your bracket fares, you’re sure to enjoy some fun at the Big 12 Run— held on the Saturday of the March Madness Championship Game! 

Stick with the 5k, or try something new with the race’s signature 12k distance. You can even challenge yourself by signing up for combo races. Come show off your team spirit with colors or gear, and enjoy some free beer at the finish if you’re 21+!

April 

In April you can double up on distance races, with the Rock the Parkway 5k and Half Marathon taking place on the 4th, and the CCVI Trolley Run 4 Mile wrapping up the month on the 26th.

Whether you decide to rock out at the Midwest’s largest half marathon and raise money for Children’s Mercy, or fly 4 miles downhill to raise money for the Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired, your April race will leave you feeling far from foolish.

May 

Support Kansas City Kansas Community College and enjoy an All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Breakfast at the Blue Devil 5K & Kid’s Trot! This fun event is perfect for families, since it has both a 5k and kid’s run (up to a quarter mile in distance.) There’s even activities provided by childcare volunteers during the 5k so parents can focus on their race. Sign up today, and bring the whole crew!

June 

Experience the “Thrill of the Hill” at Kansas City’s most challenging half marathon! The Hospital Hill Run is a local tradition, with distances of 5k, 10k, and of course, the half, attracting competitors from far and wide. Once you survive the steep signature course, you can treat yourself at the post-race party in Crown Center Square!

July 

If you can’t wait until the evening’s fireworks to celebrate, be sure to check out this patriotic race! The Ward Parkway Four on the 4th is your chance to compete in your favorite red, white, and blue style while supporting Shriners Hospitals for Kids. Oh, and did we mention root beer floats at the finish line festival?

August 

Royals fans: don’t miss your chance to get a home run at Kauffman Stadium AND a ticket to an upcoming game at The Royals Charities 5K and 10K! Part of the course is on the field, and you may even have an opportunity for a photo with Sluggerrr.

September 

Billed as Kansas City’s signature 10K event and the largest race of this distance in the bi-state area, the Plaza 10K is one you won’t want to miss! With a fast and flat course that winds through the heart of the Country Club Plaza, proceeds benefiting Saint Luke’s Homecare & Hospice, and live music and local food at the finish line party, this is the perfect chance to enjoy the best of KC.

October

The Graveyard 5k Run & Walk hosted in Elmwood Cemetery provided the setting for a scary good time! With packet pickup in a chapel featuring stunning stained glass, a winding course that allowed for fantastic views of famous graves, and spirits at the finish line, this race is not one to be missed. Sign up early so you have time to pick out the perfect costume. Then run like you’re in a horror movie to get that PR!

November 

Enjoy some fall foliage in full display at the Cliffhanger Run benefitting Northeast Neighbor to Neighbor. Whether you choose the 5k or 10k, you’ll get to marvel at the scenery along Cliff Drive. Between the natural beauty, historic homes, and even a waterfall (don’t go chasing it though!) this race is a can’t miss.

December

Get in the holiday spirit at the Westport Santa Dash! Join over 1,000 Santas (don’t worry, the suit’s included with your registration) for a festive 5k through Westport.  Finishing this jingle jog earns you a holiday ornament finisher medal and tons of fun winter treats.