Kicking PancreAS™ 5K - Prince Edward Island

The Kicking PancreAS™ 5K - Prince Edward Island 2026 is an evening charity run/walk held in Charlottetown, PE, scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026. Organized by Craig’s Cause Pancreatic Cancer Society, the event is designed to raise critical funds for pancreatic cancer research, patient support, and awareness. Following a successful 2025 event that saw 100 participants, the 2026 edition aims to expand its reach and impact within the Atlantic Canadian community.

The race is an inclusive, non-competitive 5K suitable for all fitness levels. Participants are encouraged to "light up the night" by wearing purple and glow-in-the-dark gear or costumes. Unlike many morning races, this event takes place at dusk, providing a unique atmosphere in the heart of Charlottetown. There is strictly no on-site registration, so participants must secure their spots in advance.

Charlottetown is the capital of Prince Edward Island, Canada’s smallest province. As of recent data, Charlottetown has a population of approximately 38,809 residents, while the total provincial population is roughly 176,000. The province is known for its close-knit community and high rate of volunteerism. According to Statistics Canada, Prince Edward Island often reports some of the highest rates of charitable giving and community engagement in the country, which is reflected in the local support for health-focused events like Kicking PancreAS™.

The demographics of Prince Edward Island are predominantly of European descent (approximately 85-90%), with a growing diverse population. Indigenous peoples, primarily the Mi'kmaq, represent about 2% of the population. In the context of healthcare, pancreatic cancer remains a significant concern in Canada, with a 5-year survival rate of only 10%. This event serves as a vital platform for the PEI community to address these statistics directly through local fundraising and national research support.

The 2026 fundraising goal for the Prince Edward Island event is set at CA$10,000.00</strong>. As of early April, the community has already raised over <strong>CA$500.00 through the efforts of early registrants and teams like "Mary's Kids." Every dollar raised through this event stays within Canada to support four main pillars: Public Awareness, Healthcare Education, Patient Support, and Research. By participating, the residents of Charlottetown contribute to a national movement aimed at improving the devastating outcomes associated with this specific cancer.

Registration includes a finisher medal, a running bib, and event "swag." The course at Joseph A. Ghiz Memorial Park remains open for 90 minutes, ensuring that everyone from elite runners to casual walkers can complete the distance at their own pace. Through its combination of family rates, youth rates, and team categories, the Kicking PancreAS™ 5K remains one of the most accessible and community-driven athletic events on the 2026 PEI calendar.