The Cooper Young Festival Friday 4-Miler returns to Memphis on Saturday, September 18th, setting the night before the annual Cooper-Young Festival. This historic race begins at 7:00 PM in the heart of the Cooper-Young neighborhood, a vibrant area known for its eclectic mix of architecture and friendly community spirit. Race morning finds runners starting their journey through streets lined with charming homes and bustling shops. The course winds through this historic district, offering participants not only a beautiful setting but also an experience that captures the essence of Memphis. On race night, expect slightly soft pavement underfoot as you make your way to the finish line in front of the neighborhood's lively block party. The Cooper Young Festival Friday 4-Miler has been running for several years now, becoming deeply rooted in the community and supporting various local causes through its annual participation fees. In addition to the main race, a spirit runner or virtual option is also available, providing flexibility for all runners. The course venue offers firm but slightly soft terrain, making it suitable for those familiar with Memphis’ weather conditions. The layout takes you past notable landmarks such as historic homes and modern businesses, offering a varied yet enjoyable run. At the finish line, enjoy the camaraderie of fellow runners amidst pizza, Memphis Made beer, and live music from the Lucky 7 Brass Band.
To register for this unique event, visit https://raceroster.com/events/2026/130312/cooper-young-festival-friday-4-miler. The registration fee is $44.79 and includes both the main race option as well as the spirit runner or virtual 4 Miler for those unable to be there in person. Bibs can be picked up at the Cooper-Young Community Association office from September 15th through September 17th between 3:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Bring your ID, race bib number, and any additional items you wish to bring along for the day. The start location is at the corner of Cooper Avenue and Young Street in Memphis, Tennessee. This event welcomes runners from all age groups but requires a minimum running experience level. First-timers should ensure they are prepared with appropriate gear and warm-up routines before arriving on race night. This year marks its sixth edition, making it an established fixture in local sporting events. The Cooper-Young Festival Friday 4-Miler is worth attending for the community spirit it embodies, the unique Memphis setting, and the opportunity to run alongside friends old and new at a moderate temperature with just a hint of UV exposure.
Races Offered
4 Miler
Sep 18, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6.4K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
19:00
sell
$44.79
Spirit Runner / Virtual 4 Miler
Sep 18, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6.4K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
19:00
sell
$44.79
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for September in Memphis.
thermostatTemperature
19.6° / 29.3°
wb_sunnyFeels like
20.0° / 30.0°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 8m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.8 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
9.2 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
High
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (5.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
67.3%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:43
nightlight
Sunset
19:05
About Memphis
Learn more about the host city, Memphis.
Memphis is the second largest city in the state of Tennessee, after Nashville. The state rests in the southeastern portion of the United States. Memphis, with a population of more than 651,000 (2019), is also the county seat for Shelby County. The city's claims to fame include Graceland, the mansion Elvis Presley lived in during his later years. Perhaps more importantly, Memphis is considered by many to be the home of blues music.
