The Fast & Furriest 5K returns to Tempe, Arizona on October 10th as the premier dog-friendly race and pet festival in the city. The event is spread across several locations including the downtown park where runners will start their journey. Race morning at the park begins with a cool but sunny atmosphere typical of mid-October in Tempe. With an average temperature around 26 degrees Celsius, participants can expect comfortable conditions on the day. A slight breeze of about seven to eight kilometers per hour is expected throughout the event, making for pleasant running weather without feeling too windy. This year marks the eighth consecutive year that Fast & Furriest has brought runners and their furry friends together in a vibrant celebration of community spirit. With over 1500 participants last year, this race not only supports local rescue organizations but also raises awareness about pet adoption and care through fun runs and dog competitions like "Fastest Breed in Tempe." The event's strong tradition is evident from the hundreds of families who participate annually. The course venue offers a variety of terrains suitable for both competitive athletes and casual runners. The 5K race, which features a professional timekeeping system, starts at the downtown park before winding through scenic streets filled with local businesses and landmarks like the Tempe Town Hall. Runners can expect to encounter some gentle hills but mostly smooth pavement throughout. At the start line, participants will find themselves in an energetic atmosphere with live music playing alongside enthusiastic onlookers cheering for their furry friends in the dog dash championship. The race route includes notable features such as a 40-foot fenced track where breed-specific heats are held to determine the fastest dogs of each category before crowning the overall winner. On race day, expect temperatures to range from a minimum of 18 degrees Celsius to a maximum of 33 degrees, with the temperature feeling comfortable at around 26 degrees. A slight breeze keeps things cool but don't anticipate any heavy rain or extreme conditions; however, runners should still be prepared for varying levels of humidity.
1 Mile with Dog 1mi • Start: 07:30:00 • Fee: $27.71
1 Mile without Dog 1mi • Start: 07:30:00 • Fee: $27.71
5K with Dog 5km • Start: 07:30:00 • Fee: $38.35
5K without Dog 5km • Start: 07:30:00 • Fee: $38.35
Virtual Run Start: 07:30:00 • Fee: $33.03
The Fast & Furriest 5K offers both a competitive and family-friendly experience with its variety of distances. Whether you're running solo or with your four-legged companion, there's an option that fits every participant’s preference. Registration for the event can be done through https://raceroster.com/events/2026/118246/fast-and-furriest-5k. The cost is $38.35 per person and includes a race bib, timing chip (for 5K participants), and access to the pet festival. Early bird registration closes on September 1st. Bibs can be picked up at the Tempe Community Center starting from October 7th until the day of the event. First-timers should bring their ID for verification purposes as well as appropriate running attire suitable for cooler weather, including layers if needed due to varying temperatures and slight breeze. The Fast & Furriest 5K in downtown Tempe is a testament to community spirit and love for pets. This race offers more than just competitive athletics; it's an opportunity for families and friends to come together and support local rescue organizations while enjoying the beauty of autumn weather in Arizona.
Races Offered
1 Mile with Dog
Oct 10, 2026
straighten
Distance —
1mi
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
07:30
sell
$27.71
1 Mile without Dog
Oct 10, 2026
straighten
Distance —
1mi
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
07:30
sell
$27.71
5K with Dog
Oct 10, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5km
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
07:30
sell
$38.35
5K without Dog
Oct 10, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5km
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
07:30
sell
$38.35
Virtual Run
Oct 10, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5km
terrain
Type —
Others,
Running
timer
07:30
sell
$33.03
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Tempe.
thermostatTemperature
18.7° / 33.0°
wb_sunnyFeels like
16.3° / 30.2°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
10h 31m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.1 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
7.8 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
30.2%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:33
nightlight
Sunset
17:52
About Tempe
Learn more about the host city, Tempe.
Tempe is a city of 180,587 (2020) in the Greater Phoenix area of Arizona, best known as the home of Arizona State University (ASU). Its younger, student-heavy population allows it to offer a vibrant nightlife that is relatively rare in Arizona.
