Eliot Festival 5K Road Race

The Eliot Festival 5K Road Race returns to Eliot, Maine on Saturday, September 26, 2026. The event marks the 45th year of Eliot Festival Days and will benefit Footprints Food Pantry, Eliot Fuel Assistance Fund, and William Fogg Library.
Race morning finds participants in a quaint setting just steps from Eliot Town Hall at 1333 State Road. The crisp early fall air signals the start of cooler days, with temperatures hovering around an average high of 22.9°C and lows dipping to 13.5°C on race day. The atmosphere is one of community spirit as runners warm up amidst colorful autumn foliage lining the course.
This event has a rich history dating back four decades, fostering local camaraderie through competitive running. Every year sees increased participation; this year's registration fee stands at $45 for adults and $32 for those under 18. The Eliot Festival 5K is not just about the race but also about supporting important community initiatives.
The course venue offers a fast, USATF-certified path with scenic and rural by-ways marked by police escort along the way. Runners will start in the parking lot adjacent to Town Hall and finish there as well, dispersing into the open area for refreshments, awards, and announcements at 8:15 am sharp after raising of the American flag.
Race conditions promise a comfortable pace with moderate winds averaging around 7.9 km/h and high humidity levels reaching 80.5%. The temperature feels like it will remain constant throughout the race period, offering pleasant running weather without extremes that could slow runners down or cause discomfort.