MLK Jr. Freedom Run 5K/10K/13.1 MEMPHIS

Join in our annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Run! Today, we gather to honor the legacy of Dr. King and his enduring commitment to justice, equality, and peace. As we lace up our shoes and hit the pavement, let’s reflect on his powerful message of love and resilience.
This event is not just about fitness; it’s a celebration of community, a call to action for social change, and a reminder of the work still to be done. Together, we can honor Dr. King’s dream and inspire one another to continue striving for a better world. Let’s run with purpose and passion! 

Forget the massive, impersonal race-day crowds. We keep things small, personal, and local, so every run feels less like a number and more like a memory. Whether it's a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, or virtual run, you'll get the warmth of a hometown event.

Overview:
Spots sell out FAST! We close each wave the moment it fills. Once a wave sells out, you can grab the virtual run option or join the waitlist.

This is a smaller, private group run with a capped field per wave so it never feels crowded and you're never just a bib number.

All paces and ages welcome (under 18 with a guardian) - run it, walk it, however you like!

There's no gear, no setup, no fuss - just you, the course, and our coordinators cheering you on in a relaxed, stress-free setting.

When you sign up, you're not just registering for a race - you're getting real support toward your fitness goals, plus an invite to join one of our local run clubs to keep the momentum going.

Timing:

Optional! Track your own time via Strava, RunKeeper, Nike Run, or similar, then submit it through our easy online form to get posted.  Or just ask a coordinator to help time you.

No timing chips - this is about progress, not pressure.

What You Get (Swag Bag):

- Running T-shirt (shipped to your address - U.S. only)
- Finisher's medal
- Virtual Training Run (emailed to you a month before your run)
- Online results & certificate of completion
- Invitation to join a local running club
- NEW: Upgrade to a lightweight, moisture-wicking technical shirt for just $5 more

Packet Pickup?

Skip It. No lines, no hassle - your swag ships straight to your door. (Double check your full U.S. mailing address, including apartment number, when you register as your shirt is sent to this address!) Race bibs are simply handed out on race day.

When Will My Swag Arrive?

Your shirt will arrive at your mailing address the week of your race.

Signing Up Last Minute? (Within 2 Weeks of the Race)

No problem - just note that shipping may not catch up in time, so your shirt could arrive after race day. No worries, though: wear whatever you like and come run with us anyway!

When Will I Receive the Course Map and Details?

We'll send final participant info by the Wednesday before race day with all the details and course maps.

Wave Times  (Once you've registered, use your confirmation number to reserve a wave here)

Wave A: 7:30 AM
Wave B: 8:00 AM
Wave C: 8:30 AM

Running Late?

Jump in when you arrive - our coordinators stay on-site for 3 hours after the first wave. Times may be subject to change depending on seasons, please check your participant info email!

Got more questions? Check our FAQ.

Virtual Run Option

Prefer to run on your own time? Our Virtual Run includes a digital training pack to keep you on track. Run it whenever, wherever, with any tracking device you like (optional) — then send your results to info@thebestraces.com to claim your medal.

Race Bundle

Sign up for multiple races and save with a bundle discount.

Sponsorships & Promoting Your Business

Want to put your business in front of our community? We'd love to feature you as a sponsor. Learn more.

Team Glo Volunteers

Love helping people cross finish lines? Join our volunteer team and help bring these community runs to life. Sign up here.

Be Part of the Journey

Discover our charity initiatives at https://www.thebestraces.com/runforothers/.

Got a mission that helps people around the world? Let us help you fundraise at no cost to you.

Your Race | Your Journey | Your Story