Promising Fun for Thousands of Youth Runners
Lincoln, Neb. (Aug. 21, 2026) — Fall fun is just around the corner as the 25th Annual Pumpkin Run, the nation’s largest youth fun run, returns to Lincoln on Sunday, September 27. Held in the Railyard district, the annual event brings thousands of children and families together for a morning filled with movement, excitement and community spirit.
The one-mile run will start near Canopy and P streets and lead participants to the finish line at the main entrance of Pinnacle Bank Arena. More than 4,000 young runners from more than 50 area elementary schools are expected to participate. Children will compete in grade-level heats, with races beginning every 30 minutes from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
The fun continues after the finish line. Participants will receive a 2026 Pumpkin Run medal, souvenir cup, drink and snack. Families can then head inside Pinnacle Bank Arena to enjoy the vendor fair, where more than 20 local businesses and organizations will offer games, giveaways and activities for participants to enjoy.
Those interested in participating are encouraged to register early at PumpkinRunLincoln.com. Registration prices will increase after August 28, and runners must sign up by September 15 to guarantee a commemorative event shirt.
For full event details, registration and volunteer opportunities, visit PumpkinRunLincoln.com or NebraskaSportsCouncil.com.
The Pumpkin Run is organized by the Nebraska Sports Council, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting healthy and active lifestyle choices. The event is presented by Home Real Estate, Runza, Scheels, Blumenstock Family Eyecare and Black Hills Energy. Lincoln Pediatric Dentistry and Rallis & Bonilla Orthodontics serve as the official medal and cup sponsors. Additional support comes from Platinum Partners including Pepsi-Cola of Lincoln, Grand Island Tourism, FMNE Insurance, and Nebraska Orthopaedic Center.