The Glasgow Running Festival will launch in April 2026 at Glasgow Green, bringing together a wide mix of traditional races and playful running formats under one exciting new format, organised by Up and Running Events.

At its core are the familiar distances with a half marathon, 10K and 5K on offer for runners looking to test themselves over standard courses. A relay race adds a team element, while a 5K pacer event gives runners the chance to lock into a target time and see how close they can get.

Alongside the main races is a strong line up of events for younger runners, including kids races over 2.5K and 1K, a toddler dash and a junior sports day packed with classic races and light hearted challenges. Adults can also take part in their own sports day, with plenty of opportunity for competitive bragging rights!

The festival also leans into themed running. The Dog Run pairs runners with their four legged training partners over 5K, while the Costume Run invites participants to stand out with creative outfits. The Speed Dating Run adds a twist by matching runners with a different partner on each kilometre loop, keeping things fresh from start to finish.

For those after something a little different, the Beer Run offers a relaxed 3K where the focus is as much on the stops as the running, while the Night Run brings a 5K under the lights around Glasgow Green. Rounding things off, the Zombie Run delivers an after dark 5K with unexpected moments built into the course.

With everything from timed races to novelty runs, the Glasgow Running Festival sets out to offer a packed programme with plenty of choice for runners who like their events to come with a bit of personality.

If you'd like to know more, visit the Up & Running Events website.

Image: Up & Running Events