The Pumpkin Pacer 5k & 10k returns to Washington, District of Columbia on October 10th, offering runners a scenic course through Rock Creek Park. The event attracts participants from various distances—adults and families alike enjoy the 5K or the more challenging 10K route. Rock Creek Park offers a peaceful setting for this race morning. Participants will start at the park’s main entrance on Massachusetts Avenue NW near the intersection with Connecticut Avenue, where runners are greeted by lush greenery and the calm waters of Rock Creek. The atmosphere is one of excitement and camaraderie as friends and families gather to enjoy an autumn run. Since 2017, this event has grown in popularity among local communities, attracting over a thousand participants each year who run for the cause of supporting cancer research through scholarships awarded by the Washington Cancer Research Fund. This tradition ensures that every race is not just a run but also a significant step towards making a difference locally. The course venue follows a firm and slightly soft surface, providing runners with an inviting challenge as they weave through Rock Creek Park’s trails. The 5K route begins near the entrance, circles around the park's eastern perimeter before heading back to the start line, while the 10K extends further into the park for more of a test of endurance. On race morning, walkers and strollers are welcome; the event is known for its inclusive atmosphere. Participants will begin on a flat stretch that soon transitions onto slightly undulating terrain with minimal elevation changes but some notable features like rocky outcrops along the way. The finish line marks the return to the main entrance area where participants can enjoy post-race festivities. The weather in October at Rock Creek Park averages around 15 degrees Celsius, feeling quite comfortable despite the low humidity of 69.3%. Participants should prepare for a light breeze with an average wind speed of 9.9 km/h and some rain expected—around 1.4mm on race day—but overall conditions are ideal for running.
10K 10km • Start: 07:45:00 • Fee: $49.82
5K 5km • Start: 07:45:00 • Fee: $33.75
Virtual with Medal Start: 07:45:00 • Fee: $20.89
Virtual with Medal and Shirt Start: 07:45:00 • Fee: $33.75
Virtual without Medal/Shirt Start: 07:45:00 • Fee: $12.32
To register, visit https://raceroster.com/events/2026/117383/pumpkin-pacer-5k-and-10k. Fees for the races are as follows: $49.82 for the 10K and $33.75 for the 5K, with virtual options available at various costs. Bibs can be picked up on race day between 6am to 7am from the park’s main entrance. Runners should bring their registration confirmation emails or IDs as proof of participation. The start location is at Rock Creek Park's main entrance on Massachusetts Avenue NW near Connecticut Avenue, Washington, District of Columbia. The event welcomes runners aged 13 and older; new participants are advised to arrive early with all necessary documentation for a smooth experience. This race matters because it supports cancer research through scholarships awarded by the Washington Cancer Research Fund, making every step count towards something meaningful in the community.
Races Offered
10K
Oct 10, 2026
straighten
Distance —
10km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:45
sell
$49.82
5K
Oct 10, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5km
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
07:45
sell
$33.75
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Washington.
thermostatTemperature
10.0° / 20.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
7.6° / 18.4°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
9h 7m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
1.4 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
9.9 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Moderate
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
69.3%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
07:18
nightlight
Sunset
18:28
About Washington
Learn more about the host city, Washington.
Washington, D.C., officially the District of Columbia and commonly known as simply Washington or D.C., is the capital city and federal district of the United States. The city is on the Potomac River across from Virginia and shares land borders with Maryland to its north and east. It was named after George Washington, a Founding Father and the first president of the United States. The district is named for Columbia, the female personification of the nation, through which human form and attributes are applied to the United States.
