sport
Albuquerque Runners Gear Up for Three Major Fall Events
From the Running Fiesta at Old Town Plaza to late-night brewery laps, here’s what’s on tap for the city’s fitness crowd.
How we reported this
Albuquerque’s running calendar is filling fast. The biggest draw this summer is the Running Fiesta at Old Town Plaza, which offers a Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, and Kids Mile. Registration is open now, according to the ABQ Road Runners calendar.
The lineup matters because local race organizers are packing more variety into shorter windows, aiming to capture both serious marathoners and casual weekend joggers. With the fall season still weeks away, July and August events give runners a chance to test their fitness without the pressure of a November start line.
Where to run this summer
The ABQ Foothills 10 Mile Run at Elena Gallegos Open Space will feature both a 10-mile and a 5K distance, giving participants a clear choice depending on how much climbing they want. The venue, a popular trailhead on the city’s east side, is known for its dry climate and wide-open views of the Sandias.
For those who prefer pavement and a post-run pint, weekly community runs keep the momentum going. Tuesday’s Dash and Dine starts at 6:30 pm at Bosque Brewing. Wednesday’s Brew Lab 101 run begins at 6:00 pm. Both are open to all paces and organized by iRunFit.
Later in the season, the Run with Joy Half Marathon/10K/5K/1 Miler is scheduled for March 28, 2026, starting at Canteen Brewhouse. That event, listed on Eventbrite, gives runners a solid goal heading into spring.
Hardcore options for the determined
If a single race isn’t enough, there’s the Death By 5K 24-hour challenge at Balloon Fiesta Park. Runners have to complete 10 x 5Ks in a day, a test of endurance that separates the casual crowd from the die-hards. Registration is available through the ABQ Road Runners events page.
No price changes or discount codes have been announced for any of these events as of mid-July. Most race fees remain consistent with previous years, according to organizers’ public listings.
For runners looking ahead, the local race scene offers a mix of distances and venues across the city. The key is picking an event that fits your schedule and training level, then registering before slots fill up. Most races have capped fields, especially at Elena Gallegos and Balloon Fiesta Park.