2026 Kanawha Valley 5K Winter Series

Saint Albans, nestled in the heart of West Virginia, prepares for its annual winter challenge with the 2026 Kanawha Valley 5K Winter Series. The race spans from January 1st through February 28th, beginning on Race into the New Year Day at Saint Albans High School (SAHS). Participants will experience the crisp morning air and early light of a West Virginia winter as they run through picturesque neighborhoods and along familiar streets, feeling the community's energy and camaraderie. The series aims to bring together runners from various walks of life who share an appreciation for this unique season.
The race takes place in Saint Albans at different locations each month: SAHS on Race into the New Year Day, Kanawha Sports Festival (KSF) on January 25th, and Nitro on February 28th. These venues offer a variety of terrains, but runners should expect firm and slightly soft ground conditions due to typical winter weather in Saint Albans.
The course layout for each race is designed to take advantage of the city’s scenic routes while ensuring safety and fairness. The start and finish locations are easily accessible from SAHS on January 1st, with a special feature at KSF on the 25th where runners can enjoy festive atmosphere among dachshund owners through the snow. Nitro on February 28th provides a challenging but manageable elevation that will test even seasoned runners.
The weather in Saint Albans during these months is characterized by temperatures ranging from -3.3°C to 5.6°C, with an average wind speed of 11 km/h and humidity levels around 74.9%. Runners should prepare for a mix of sunshine and rain, as well as the occasional snowfall. The UV index typically remains low at 2.0, offering some protection from harmful rays.

Logistics for the 2026 Kanawha Valley 5K Winter Series are straightforward yet thorough. Runners can register via https://runsignup.com/Race/WV/SaintAlbans/KV5KWinterSeries at any time before each race day, with fees ranging from $70 to $100 based on the registration period. Bib pickup details will be announced closer to the event dates and are available only in person.
Race participants must start their journey from Saint Albans High School for Race into the New Year Day, adhering to age requirements of 18 years or older. First-timers should plan ahead by familiarizing themselves with the race routes and weather conditions beforehand.
The Kanawha Valley 5K Winter Series is more than just a race; it's an opportunity to support local communities and participate in three races for a medal and jacket. By completing all three events, runners can celebrate their achievement through this series that has become a tradition in Saint Albans since its inception.