Oktoberfest Will Go on Without Great Pumpkin 5K

Karen Goff October 2, 2014 at 4:40pm

The Anthem Great Pumpkin 5K, a staple of the Oktoberfest Reston lineup the last few years, will not happen in 2014, says Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce CEO Mark Ingrao.

The race, which featured costumed runners, a kids’ pumpkin dash and one of the best logos around, was organized by the Greater Washington Sports Alliance, which has since disbanded, said Ingrao.

Ingrao said the Chamber, which organizes Oktoberfest Reston, plans on bringing back the race themselves in 2015. This year’s Oktoberfest will take place at Reston Town Center Oct. 11-12.

Runners, take note: There will be several new races in Reston this fall to fill any racing void.

GRACE Race, Oct. 25, 8:30 a.m., Reston Town Center

Greater Reston Arts Center (GRACE) will present its inaugural 5K GRACE Race Art-inspired costumes are encouraged. There will also be a Kids Dash and free family art activities in the Reston Town Center Pavilion. Proceeds will benefit GRACE.

Mustache Mile, Nov. 8, 2 p.m., Reston Town Center

November is Movember, when men grow mustaches to raise awareness of men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer. Movember aims to increase early cancer detection, diagnosis and effective treatments. Runners are invited to sport a mustache for the run. There will be five, one-mile courses depending on your goals and abilities. Proceeds will benefit men’s health organizations.

Turkey Day 5K, Nov. 27, 8 a.m., South Lakes High School

Start out Thanksgiving Day with a 5K, a one-mile fun run or a tot trot. Proceeds will benefit Reston’s Embry Rucker Community Shelter.