5K Zombie Run & One Mile Family Fun Run

The Rotary Club of Morganton, with the sponsorship support of UNC Health Blue Ridge, will present their First Annual Zombie Run 5K and One Mile Family Fun Run on October 10, 2026 at the Courthouse Square in downtown Morganton, NC. The morning will start at 9:00 AM with participant check-in with the Family Fun Run (no chasing Zombies in the Fun Run, but they may be lurking along the way) starting at 10:00am and the 5K Zombie Run starting at 11:00. The run will be followed by an After Party at Courthouse Square with Big Daddy's Food Truck & Kountry Girl Bakery & Arepitas Food Truck on site along with Zombie beers and an Oktoberfest brew from Sidetracked available for purchase.

What is the Zombie Run? Who wants to run just a simple 5K? In a Zombie Run, you run a 5k while avoiding the advances of the Zombies!! Runners are equipped with Velcro belts holding 3 flags and the goal is to finish the run with as many flags as you can. Zombies are stationed intermittently throughout the route and they will try to steal the runners’ flags. Flags will be turned in for prizes. In addition, there will be overall 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes for those who manage to finish with the fastest times and most flags. In a world with Zombies, running fastest, out in the lead, may not be the best strategy to preserve your flags - there is something to be said for not drawing attention to yourself.

Timers will be stationed along the route shouting out times; a timeclock will be located at the finish line; and volunteers will be at the finish line sorting finishers.

What is the Family Fun Run? This run is for anyone who wants to be part of the festivities but doesn’t want to run 3.1 miles or interact with Zombies. It’s a great opportunity for families and friends to run…or walk…together.

What happens after the runs? There will be an after party with food and music back at the starting pavilions - a fall festival atmosphere to round out the day. Two food trucks will be on site: Arepitas and Big Daddy's Food Truck & Kountry Girl Bakery. Sidetracked Brewery will be selling Zombie and Oktoberfest beers. There will be activities and games, music, and fun for all.

What is the cost to participate and what is included? Registration for the Zombie Run 5K starts at $30. After September 1, registration cost increases to $35. Registration costs increase again after October 1 to $40. Registration for the Family Fun Run is $10. Fun Run participants receive two special gifts they can collect after the run. Zombie Run participants are assured a long-sleeve t-shirt through 9/25, 2026.

Where do the proceeds go? The Rotary Club of Morganton raises funds to distribute to organizations and agencies that help the community. The funds raised through this event in 2026 will be awarded to Burke County Habitat for Humanity and The Enola Group.

How do I register for this event? Register here now! Send your questions to kimvansickler@gmail.com.