Spring Cleaning 5k, 10k & Half

About the Event

The 2026 Spring Cleaning 5k, 10k & Half is scheduled for Sunday, April 19, 2026, in the heart of Washington, DC. This scenic event takes place along the historic Chesapeake & Ohio Canal (C&O Canal) path, offering runners a unique natural corridor within the nation's capital. Washington, DC, has a diverse population of approximately 670,000, with a demographic profile that is roughly 45% Black or African American, 37% White, 11% Hispanic or Latino, and 5% Asian. The race provides a tranquil escape from the urban environment, utilizing the flat, shaded towpath that is a favorite for local athletes and nature enthusiasts alike.

Race Category	Distance	Start Time	Start/Finish Location
Half Marathon	21.1 km	7:00 AM EDT	Georgetown (Potomac Boat Club)
10K Run/Walk	10 km	7:00 AM EDT	Fletchers Cove Boathouse
5K Run/Walk	5 km	7:00 AM EDT	Fletchers Cove Boathouse

Course Logistics and Experience

Participants should note that the start and finish locations vary by distance. The Half Marathon begins and ends near the Potomac Boat Club in Georgetown, while the 5K and 10K events are centered at Fletcher’s Cove Boathouse on Canal Road Northwest. All courses utilize the C&O Canal towpath, known for its crushed stone surface and minimal elevation changes, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a personal best or a comfortable walking environment. Walkers are explicitly welcomed across all distances, fostering an inclusive atmosphere for participants of all paces.

Registration and Fees

Registration fees are tiered, with the next price increase scheduled for March 31, 2026. Current standard pricing for the 5K is $39.10, the 10K is $55.18, and the Half Marathon is $76.61 (all including fees). Race-day registration is available at a premium rate for those who prefer last-minute entry. Additionally, several virtual options are offered, ranging from a "no-frills" entry at $12.32 to a full package with a medal and shirt for $33.75, allowing supporters to participate from any location.

Impact and Contact

The Spring Cleaning race encourages a fresh start to the season by promoting physical activity in one of the city's most beautiful outdoor spaces. For those interested in supporting the event through service, volunteer opportunities are available. For technical support or specific questions regarding the C&O Canal path conditions, the primary event contact is Travis Bishop. Participants are encouraged to arrive early, as parking near the boathouses can be limited on weekend mornings.

Races Offered

10K

Apr 19, 2026

straighten

Distance — 10km

terrain

Type — Running

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07:00

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$55.18

5K

Apr 19, 2026

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Distance — 5km

terrain

Type — Running

timer

07:00

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$39.10

Half Marathon

Apr 19, 2026

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Distance — 21km

terrain

Type — Running

timer

07:00

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$76.61

Virtual with Medal

Apr 19, 2026

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Distance — Virtual with Medal

terrain

Type — Running

timer

07:00

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$20.89

Virtual with Medal and Shirt

Apr 19, 2026

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Distance — Virtual with Medal and Shirt

terrain

Type — Running

timer

07:00

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$33.75

Virtual without Medal/Shirt

Apr 19, 2026

straighten

Distance — Virtual without Medal/Shirt

terrain

Type — Running

timer

07:00

sell

$12.32

Weather Overview

These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for April in Washington.

Temp (°C)

Feels Like (°C)

thermostat 9.5° / 20.9°

wb_sunny 6.5° / 18.3°

Wind (km/h)

Humidity (%)

air 11.9 /

water_drop 63.3%

Temp (°C)

Feels Like (°C)

Wind (km/h)

Humidity (%)

thermostat 9.5° / 20.9°

wb_sunny 6.5° / 18.3°

air 11.9 km/h

water_drop 63.3%

About Washington

Learn more about the host city, Washington.

Washington, D.C., officially the District of Columbia and commonly known as simply Washington or D.C., is the capital city and federal district of the United States. The city is on the Potomac River across from Virginia and shares land borders with Maryland to its north and east. It was named after George Washington, a Founding Father and the first president of the United States. The district is named for Columbia, the female personification of the nation, through which human form and attributes are applied to the United States.