11 Spring Races to Run or Walk In the DMV

Run, sprint, power walk—whatever you have to do to leave all that snowcrete in the dust now that spring has sprung (albeit unofficially). Enjoy the warmer and longer days with road races, which are back in abundance. Here are some outings that will benefit both your health and local organizations.

Four Courts Four Miler

Ireland’s Four Courts and DC Road Runners are resurrecting a St. Patrick’s Day tradition that’s had a bit of bad luck in recent years. “The race ran from 2010-2019. It was canceled for covid in 2020 and 2021,” says Four Courts managing partner Dave Cahill. “It returned in 2022. The pub closed in 2023 because of [an accident that caused extensive damage], and this is our first year back.” Runners of all abilities are invited to celebrate Four Courts’ 30th anniversary with a run on March 14, 9 a.m., leaving from and returning to the pub. Register to get a T-shirt and a free drink from the restaurant at the finish line. The after-party starts at 10 a.m. and features live Irish music. 2501 Wilson Blvd., Arlington (Clarendon/Courthouse)

Prime your St. Paddy’s Day partying with a pre-game run on March 17, 5:30-8 p.m. that starts and ends near Port City Brewing. The course wends along Holmes Run in Alexandria, and runners get a post-run pint of beer at the finish. Registration is $40 for the 5K and $55 for the 10K. 3950 Wheeler Ave., Alexandria

St. Jude Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series Washington DC

Get up close and personal with the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial if you sign up for the half-marathon option (starting at 8 a.m.) of this March 21 race through the nation’s capital. Participants preferring a shorter course can opt for the 5K, which begins and ends at the Capitol Building (start time 7:30 a.m.) after winding through the neighborhood. Registration for the half costs $189, while the 5K is $109. See maps online for start sites.

Sole Circle Run for Paws 5K and 10K

Support the Humane Society of Charles County, Maryland while running (or walking) along the Potomac River in Gravelly Point Park on March 28, 7 a.m. In addition to view of the water, the scenery will include planes taking off and landing at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Registration is $45. Access the park via the northbound lanes of the George Washington Parkway.

Book Bounce 5K & 10K

Book Bounce, a research-based nonprofit dedicated to closing the literacy gap for children ages 3-5 who do not speak English at home, will host this fundraiser race April 12, 7:45-10 a.m. The flat course goes around Bluemont Park, and strollers are welcome. Registration is $30 for the 5K and $45 for the 10K through March 31. Prices increase by $5 as of April 1. 329 N. Manchester St., Arlington (Boulevard Manor)

Arlington Bunny Hop 5K

The organizers of Arlington’s longstanding Thanksgiving Day turkey trot are back at it with a spring race that raises money for several local charities. (Last year’s bunny hop raised $31,000 for Bridges to Independence, which supports people experiencing homelessness.) This year’s race on April 18, 8 a.m., begins and ends at Clarendon United Methodist Church and culminates in a post-run block party with activities for kids of all ages. Costumes are welcome! Registration is $50 for adults or $25 for kids ages 6-17. 606 N. Irving St., Arlington (Clarendon)

Falls Church High School Jaguar 5K Run/Walk and Kids 1 Mile Fun Run

This 21st annual event, scheduled for April 18, 8 a.m., raises money for Falls Church High School’s fitness activities, including sports programs, a weight room and PE equipment. Registration is $30 through March 31, $40 thereafter and $50 on the day of the race. The kids’ run is $20 in advance and $30 on race day. 7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church

PVTC Easter Classic 5K and 10K

Hosted by the Potomac Valley Track Club, this foot race includes a 5K course for walkers or runners, and a 10K intended exclusively for runners. Both start around 8 a.m. on April 19 at Bon Air Park. Registration starts at $10. 850 N. Lexington St., Arlington

Marymount 5K

Support students enrolled in Marymount University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program when you sign up for this April 25, 8 a.m., race. Fees to join the 11th annual walk or run on the Bluemont and Custis trails are around $50 for adults; $20 for children younger than 12. 2807 N. Glebe Road, Arlington (Ballston)

Bands on the Run 5K

For a race sure to get your toes tapping, sign up for this event April 26, 8 a.m. The band directors from Langley High School and Cooper Middle School in McLean will conduct a parade of runners and walkers through the Langley Oaks neighborhood, with proceeds benefiting the band programs at both schools. Registration is $45; $40 for kids ages 6-18. (Note that prices will increase after April 9.) Langley High School, 6520 Georgetown Pike, McLean

National Police Week 5K

Officer Down Memorial Page, a nonprofit honoring fallen law enforcement officers, is hosting its 20th Annual National Police Week 5K on May 9, 9 a.m. Registration is $45 through March 31; $50 April-May 8; $55 on race day. The course runs through Crystal City and the top three male and female finishers will win Amazon gift cards. Army Navy Drive and South Eads Street, Arlington (National Landing)