The 2026 Canada Day Dash 5K in Belleville, Ontario, returns on July 1st to celebrate Canadian patriotism through a community run around Zwick's Park. The event kicks off at the Bayshore Trail under Norris Whitney Bridge, where runners and spectators gather for an exciting morning of running.
Race morning finds participants assembling at the familiar trailhead under the Norris Whitney Bridge, with the warm glow of sunrise casting light on Belleville’s historic downtown skyline. A gentle breeze picks up as temperatures hover around 22 degrees Celsius, making it a comfortable yet sunny day to lace up and begin the journey. The air feels crisp but not overly cold, perfect for an early summer run.
The tradition of this event dates back several years, with thousands of runners participating each year to support local initiatives. This race matters deeply in Belleville as it raises funds for Rachel Kelly's scholarship program, which helps underprivileged youth pursue their education and dream big.
The 5K course takes runners through the scenic trails of Zwick’s Park, offering a mix of natural beauty and well-marked paths that ensure a smooth run. The terrain is hard and dry, providing an ideal surface even on hot days. A notable feature of the race is its elevation change, which includes slight inclines but remains manageable for all skill levels.
Participants can expect to see aid stations along the course, where they can grab water or other refreshments if needed. At the finish line, a sense of camaraderie among runners and spectators alike fills the air as everyone shares in the joy of celebration. The weather forecast predicts an average temperature range from 17.4°C to 27.4°C with humidity levels at 72.6%, ensuring that despite the high UV index making for very high sun exposure, it remains a pleasant race day.
5K
5K • Start: 10:00:00 • Fee: CA$18.44
5K
The event offers both adults and children the opportunity to participate in this community run through Zwick’s Park. The full course is exactly 5 kilometers long.
Registration for the 2026 Canada Day Dash 5K can be done online via https://raceroster.com/events/2026/137248/2026-canada-day-dash-5k, where you will find a fee of CA$18.44 per participant and all necessary details for registration.
Bibs are available for pickup on race day between 8:30 AM and 9:30 AM at the Bayshore Trail under Norris Whitney Bridge. Be sure to bring your own pen or pencil as well as any required identification documents if needed.
The start location is the same meeting point, where runners will gather before heading out onto Zwick’s Park for their run. Age requirements are open, welcoming participants of all ages who wish to join in this patriotic celebration through running.
This race matters deeply and is worth attending due to its commitment to supporting local scholarships while fostering a sense of community among Belleville residents. The 2026 Canada Day Dash 5K on July 1st offers an enjoyable and meaningful way to celebrate Canadian heritage with friends, family, or fellow runners.
