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Crystal Coast Running & Fitness Events - 2026 Schedule

Crystal Coast Running & Fitness Events - 2026 Schedule

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

This Week
Friday, November 13th - Saturday, November 14th
Beaufort

The Beaufort Pirate Invasion is one of coastal North Carolina’s most popular history-themed festivals, transforming the waterfront town of Beaufort into a lively seaport filled with pirates, soldiers, merchants, and colonial-era characters. Held annually in downtown Beaufort, the event celebrates the town’s rich maritime heritage and commemorates the historic Spanish attack on Beaufort in 1747, as well as the region’s connections to the legendary pirate Blackbeard and other seafaring figures.

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

Week of November 23, 2026 - November 29, 2026
Thursday, November 26th 8:30 AM
Pine Knoll Shores

The Pine Knoll Shores Turkey Trot is a popular Thanksgiving Day tradition that brings together runners, walkers, families, and visitors for a morning of fitness, fun, and community spirit along North Carolina’s Crystal Coast. Held annually at McNeil Park in Pine Knoll Shores, the event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities and offers a festive way to start the holiday before gathering with family and friends for Thanksgiving celebrations.

Thursday, November 26th 8:00 AM
Cape Carteret

Kick off Thanksgiving Day with a little exercise, plenty of holiday spirit, and a whole lot of fun at the annual Cape Carteret Turkey Trot! This festive, family-friendly event invites runners, walkers, and participants of all ages and abilities to come together for a morning of fitness, laughter, and community celebration. Whether you're an experienced runner or simply looking to make room for Thanksgiving dinner, the Turkey Trot offers a fun way to start the holiday.

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

Week of November 30, 2026 - December 6, 2026
Saturday, December 5th 8:30 AM
Atlantic Beach

Get into the holiday spirit with a festive coastal twist at the annual Santa Beach Run/Walk at Fort Macon State Park in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina. This cheerful holiday event invites runners, walkers, families, and friends to celebrate the season while enjoying the beautiful beaches of the Crystal Coast. With its combination of fresh ocean air, scenic surroundings, and Christmas cheer, the Santa Beach Run/Walk offers a fun and memorable way to stay active during the holidays.

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

Week of December 28, 2026 - January 3, 2027
Friday, January 1st 1:00 PM
Atlantic Beach

Get a shockingly refreshing start to 2027 with this annual event that has been attracting brave Atlantic Beach visitors and residents for more than 20 years. The annual Penguin Plunge is a favorite New Year’s event for participants and spectators alike, with an icy-cold dip into the Atlantic Ocean that is sure to get everyone’s heart pumping.

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

Week of March 15, 2027 - March 21, 2027
Saturday, March 20th
Morehead City

The Crystal Coast Run/Walk for Autism brings together runners, walkers, families, and community supporters for an inspiring event dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals with autism. Held in Morehead City along North Carolina's beautiful Crystal Coast, this annual gathering combines fitness, fun, and community spirit while raising awareness and funds for an important cause.

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

Week of March 29, 2027 - April 4, 2027
Saturday, April 3rd 9:00 AM
Harkers Island

Embark on an active exploration of Harkers Island while taking in miles of views along the way at the annual Core Sound Run in the Down East region of the Crystal Coast. With options to tackle a 10K, 5K, or a one mile fun run, this event can cater to visitors of all ages and abilities, and is a fun and engaging opportunity to see how charming this corner of the Crystal Coast can be.

Event info is subject to change at any time. Check associated official event websites for latest.

Week of June 7, 2027 - June 13, 2027
Saturday, June 12th
Morehead City

Take advantage of the beautiful springtime weather, as well as an opportunity to explore the Crystal Coast in depth, with this annual race that is celebrating its 36th year in 2026. The Annual Lookout Rotary Road Race is a fun event that is accessible for attendees of all ages and skill levels, and which offers a wide range of courses – from a Fitness Walk to a Half Marathon – to encourage everyone to get out, get active, and join in the fun.

Crystal Coast Map
Emerald Isle Indian Beach Pine Knoll Shores Atlantic Beach Shackleford Banks Beaufort Morehead City Cape Lookout Cedar Island Harkers Island New Bern
Cahooque Creek Recreation Area

The waterfront Cahooque Creek Recreation Site, located at the very corner where the Hancock and Cahoogue rivers meet up with the expansive Neuse River, is a water and boat lover's dream destination. With easy access to all three of these rivers, in...

Second Wynd, Luxury Home, Private Pool, ...

Second Wynd in Emerald Isle is a freshly refreshed coastal getaway where every bedroom features a private en-suite bath for comfort and privacy. Tucked away in a peaceful neighborhood, this thoughtfully furnished home blends modern luxury with...

  • Emerald Isle
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 4 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 12
Waterfront 4 BR retreat at the sound sid...

The property is for rent for off season for one month minimum. Available from Jan 2 to April 2024. It's located in the waterfront area and just 100 steps to the beach. There are kayaks, bicycles, a dock with a walkway.

  • Emerald Isle
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 10
Kitty Hawk Kites

Founded as the world's first hang gliding school in 1974, Kitty Hawk Kites has grown into a beloved retail and outdoor recreation venture with more than 28 locations up and down the east coast! With more than 50 years of teaching the world to fly...

Blue Bungalow, Soundside House in Pine K...

Golf course vistas, painless beach access and more await your family at Blue Bungalow! This 4 bedroom, 3 bath single family home was constructed in 2014. This home has a charmingly huge fenced in and landscaped front yard and outdoor covered seating...

  • Pine Knoll Shores
  • 4 Bedrooms
  • 3 Bathrooms
  • Sleeps 8
Shackleford Wild Horse & Shelling Safari

Take a quick and scenic ferry ride with your experienced guide over to the pristine Outer Banks Island of Shackleford Banks, which is part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore. There, you are introduced to the wild horses of Shackleford...