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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.

Week of October 12, 2026 - October 18, 2026
Friday, October 16th - Saturday, October 17th
Atlantic Beach

Have a lot of stamina and want to explore the coastal North Carolina region in its entirety? Then you’ll want to grab your friends and family and sign up for the massive but all-around fun Tuna Run 200 Relay. This relay race that extends more than 200 miles from start to finish takes participants on a fascinating tour of eastern North Carolina, and eventually lands in the heart of the Crystal Coast in the sunny town of Atlantic Beach.

Saturday, October 17th 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Newport

The Crystal Coast Highland Games is an annual celebration of Scottish and Celtic heritage that brings together athletes, musicians, dancers, clans, vendors, and visitors for a day of culture, competition, and family-friendly entertainment on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast. Held each fall in Newport, the event showcases many of the traditions that have made Highland Games popular around the world, offering attendees an opportunity to experience the sights, sounds, and spirit of Scotland without leaving the coast.

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

Week of October 19, 2026 - October 25, 2026
Saturday, October 24th
Emerald Isle

Rapidly becoming a favorite tradition for active Crystal Coast visitors and locals alike, the Emerald Isle Marathon, Half-Marathon & 5K Races are a great opportunity for folks to discover the gorgeous communities and shorelines of Emerald Isle and beyond, while supporting a worthy local cause and enjoying a little competitive spirit in the heart of the Outer Banks.

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

Week of November 2, 2026 - November 8, 2026
Saturday, November 7th
Beaufort

Take in one of the most scenic new routes of the Crystal Coast with this unique fitness event that is celebrating its 7th year in 2025. The Beaufort Bridge Run 5K & 1+ Mile Dog Strut, with its unique course that includes two new bridges, has become one of the most popular races in the region with visitors from all over eastern North Carolina and the country taking advantage of this fun running event that features unparalleled views.

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

Week of November 9, 2026 - November 15, 2026
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.

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
Crystal Coast Camping

The Crystal Coast is a dream destination for campers, road warriors, and anyone who appreciates the great outdoors. Comprising of miles of desolate beaches, hopping waterfront communities, and everything in between, campers will soon discover that...

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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...

A Place at the Beach

While you're here, you can appreciate all the amenities of home and more, including a fenced pool and a refrigerator, as well as an oven and a stovetop. Other conveniences include laundry facilities, towels, a couch bed, and kitchenware and...

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Morehead City Ferry Service

The Crystal Coast is best explored from the water, and Morehead City Ferry Service will take explorers to some of the most remote and beautiful corners of this long stretch of Southern Outer Banks shoreline. Launching from the heart of Downtown...