Get ready for an eerie yet exhilarating experience with the Spook-tacular Somerville Monster Dash 5k on its fifth anniversary edition. This USATF-certified race takes runners along scenic paths by the Mystic River, offering both natural beauty and a thrilling challenge. The event kicks off at Riverfront Park in Assembly Row, Somerville MA, where participants will start their journey at 11:00am sharp. The course follows the DCR walking, running, and bike path alongside Great River Road for an initial stretch before veering onto the boardwalk underpass along Fellsway. After a brief .3-mile run through this scenic area, runners encounter Shore Drive near the Blessing of the Bay Boathouse. From there, they continue on the paved pathway parallel to Route 93N and cross over the Mystic River alongside Rt. 16 into Torbert Macdonald Park within the Mystic River State Reservation. The route then winds through this park before crossing back over the Mystic River along Fellsway at approximately 2.8 miles, leading runners past their final stretch to reach the finish line back in Riverfront Park where they began. This year’s Monster Dash promises a unique blend of excitement and beauty as participants navigate varied terrain including paved paths, boardwalks, and park trails, all while enjoying stunning views of the Mystic River. The race is not only about speed but also immersing oneself in an enchanting setting that brings together runners from various backgrounds to celebrate their passion for running. With its mix of flat sections along riverside paths and slight inclines as you cross over bridges, this 5k course offers a dynamic challenge perfect for both seasoned racers looking for variety and newcomers eager to experience the thrill of racing in one of New England’s most picturesque settings.
Races Offered
5K
Oct 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
5K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$39.05
Youth 200 Meter
Oct 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Youth 200 Meter
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$12.55
Youth Half Mile
Oct 25, 2026
straighten
Distance —
Youth Half Mile
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
10:30
sell
$12.55
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for October in Somerville.
thermostatTemperature
8.7° / 17.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
5.6° / 14.8°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
8h 28m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
2.4 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
12.3 km/h (Gentle breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Moderate (4.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
74.2%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:58
nightlight
Sunset
18:00
About Somerville
Learn more about the host city, Somerville.
Older Bostonians might still derisively call it "Slummerville", but today that tired old moniker couldn't be further from the truth. Packed with upwardly mobile professionals and longtime residents, Somerville is often voted an "All-America City" and the best-run city in Massachusetts. It would seem civically engaged folks can achieve uncommon results; and Somerville fosters an environment of cooperation like no other. Its 81,000 residents (2020) are quick to enjoy the fruits of their artistry, and you'll find top notch options for dinner, drinks, and dancing all in abundance within Somerville's borders. Lurking just to the south, big brothers Boston and Cambridge provide options and opportunities for many of Somerville's creative class residents.