Welcome back to the Downtown Rocks and Runs 5K & 10K!
After a one-year detour as the Ararat River Run, we're excited to bring this beloved race back to its roots—right where it belongs—in the heart of downtown Mount Airy. Due to overwhelming feedback and popular demand from runners, sponsors, and community supporters, the original Downtown Rocks and Runs courses are making their return, offering participants the chance to once again experience the energy, charm, and scenic streets of downtown while supporting a great cause.
Whether you're chasing a personal best, enjoying a walk or run with friends, or simply looking for a fun way to give back, Downtown Rocks and Runs has something for everyone. Participants will enjoy a unique race experience through historic downtown Mount Airy, featuring challenging hills, vibrant neighborhoods, enthusiastic spectators, and the unmistakable spirit of our community.
More than just a race, Downtown Rocks and Runs serves as the official kickoff event for the United Fund of Surry's annual fundraising campaign. Every step taken and every registration helps support the many local programs and organizations that strengthen our community throughout the year.
Join us as we celebrate the return of a local favorite, support an important cause, and kick off another successful United Fund campaign. Lace up your running shoes, gather your friends and family, and help us make this year's Downtown Rocks and Runs the best one yet!
Race Date: August 15th, 2026
Registration Fees
- 5K Individual and Corporate Participation Challenge
- Early Registration through 7/12: $35
- Standard Registration 7/13-8/15: $40
- 10K Individual and Corporate Participation Challenge
- Early Registration through 7/12: $40
- Standard Registration 7/13-8/15: $45
- Fun Run: FREE for Kids 12 and under (no t-shirt); $10 with w/shirt purchase.
Online registration runs through 7:30 AM race morning.
Finishers will receive a finishers' medal!
Runners registered by July 31, 2026, are assured an awesome event t-shirt and the best goodie bag around! Run/walk individually or be part of a team --5K or 10K Individual
Run the 5K or 10K and be eligible for individual awards, or join one of our 5K Team challenges below.*Walkers and strollers are welcome in the 5K.*Corporate Participation Challenge
Show your company's pride and commitment to health and fitness. The organization with the highest number of Downtown Rocks and Runs 5K or 10K run/walk participants will receive a Corporate Participation Challenge trophy.
Recovery
An assortment of breakfast foods, fruit, and water will be available for the runners at the finish line.
Awards
- Overall Top Male and Female in the 5K and 10K win $250!
- 5K and 10K Individual Awards: Overall 1st, 2nd, 3rd Place Male/Female and Top 3 Male/Female Age Divisions: 13 and under, 14-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+; based on gun time
- Corporate Participation Challenge: Team trophy for the company with the highest number of Ararat River Run participants in the 5K and 10K combined.
- Fun Run (Kids 12 and under): All Fun Runners will receive a participation ribbon.
The 5K and 10K races will have a gun start and chip-timed finish. This means that all participants will have the same start time, and the finish time will be recorded as each runner crosses the finish line by reading the chip on the back of your numbered bib. Timing services will be provided by Go! Sports Timing and Events.The Fun Run will have a clock at the finish line, but individual times are not recorded for this event.
Early Packet PickupFriday, August 1411:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Mount Airy Municipal Building (City Hall)
300 S. Main Street, Mount Airy
Race Day Registration and Packet PickupSaturday, August 157:00 - 7:45 AMMount Airy Municipal Building (City Hall)
300 S. Main Street, Mount Airy10K Start - 7:45 AM5K Start - 8:00 AMKid's Fun Run - 9:00 AMRace Awards - 9:15 AM
