Are you on the hunt for a fun community race to get the family involved and fuel your passion for marathon running? El Paso residents are in for a treat. The city is hosting a variety of fun-themed 5Ks sure to excite everyone in town. Here are four upcoming events to keep in mind.
Color Vibe 5K Run
The Color Vibe 5K Run is a race like no other. Color stations are set up with paint launchers ready to douse runners in an airy mist of colored powder from head to toe. But don’t worry — the powder washes out easily and is non-toxic, so all ages are welcome to join the fun.
If interested, you can pre-register to secure your spot, enjoy discounted pricing, and enter an exclusive contest to win free goodies. Race packets are standard and include freebies like T-shirts, sunglasses, race bibs, and color packs.
The race starts at 8 a.m., and you can check the Color Vibe 5K Run website for date and location updates.
Date: TBD
Dragons Zombies Skulls Run
Despite the fantasy-packed name, you won’t find any dragons or zombies at this El Paso race. However, you will find a Golden Sugar Skull, which will be given to top finishers in each age division. This glitzy reward goes hand in hand with the race’s Dio De Los Muertos theme.
The Dragons Zombies Skulls Run will offer everything from sideline entertainment like mariachis and traditional folk dancing to an after-party filled with children’s activities and authentic Mexican and Latin American cuisine. Events are expected to kick off in the evening, but a location has yet to be announced.
Date: Sept. 8
Downtown Running of the Bulls 5K
The Running of the Bulls 5K event is a great way to take in the exciting sights and sounds of bustling downtown El Paso. The course begins at Franklin and Oregon Streets and offers a refreshing 3.1-mile trek past the downtown area. Opening events begin at 8:15 a.m. with the 5K run scheduled to start 45 minutes later.
Awards will be given out to top finishers in each age group and teams of five or more. There will also be activity stations and door prizes available. Participants can opt to purchase a post-race meal ticket for $15, a single 5K run ticket for $25, or both for $30.
Date: Oct. 20
Flying Horse Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K
Head north of El Paso to Anthony for this next running event. The Flying Horse Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K will take place near the Henry Miramontes Memorial Park on Richard White and Franklin Street. From here you’ll embark on a double-loop course that stretches from the Texas border into New Mexico and back.
Admission ranges from $25 to $45 depending on date of registration, though all military members will receive a $5 discount. Included with that price are goodies such as a special race T-shirt, an athlete bag, snacks and beverages, a finisher medal, and more. The 5K portion kicks off at 8:10 a.m. with an award ceremony following at 9:15 a.m.
Date: Nov. 17
There’s nothing like a 5K to get your adrenaline pumping. Mark these El Paso runs on your calendar so you don’t miss out!
Image via Visit El Paso | Licensed by CC BY 2.0


