2026 KU Vets Day 5K 2026 — Lawrence, KS

Date
November 15, 2026
Location
Lawrence, KS
Venue
The Jayhawk Welcome Center
Start Time
9:00 AM
Entry Fee
$30.00 – $45.00
Events
2026 Vets Day 5k
Includes
T-shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

The 2026 KU Vets Day 5K takes place at the Jayhawk Welcome Center in Lawrence, Kansas on November 15. Despite the race name, the actual distance offered is 1 mile. The event starts at 9:00 AM and carries an entry fee between $30 and $45. If you're unable to attend in person, a virtual participation option is available, allowing you to complete the distance on your own course. Lawrence accommodates runners traveling for the event, with various lodging options near the venue for those needing overnight stays before or after the race.

From the Race Organizer
Join us on Sunday, November 15, for the annual KU Vets Day 5K, a community event honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans while celebrating the important role military-affiliated students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members play at the University of Kansas and beyond. This year's race holds special significance as we commemorate the 40th anniversary of the University of Kansas Vietnam War Memorial, dedicated in 1986 as the first on-campus Vietnam memorial in the United States. The memorial stands as a lasting tribute to Jayhawks who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War and reflects KU's longstanding commitment to honoring veterans and preserving their legacy for future generations. The race will begin and end at the Jayhawk Welcome Center, bringing together runners, walkers, veterans, military families, students, alumni, and community supporters for a morning of remembrance and camaraderie. Proceeds from the event support veteran-focused programs and initiatives that strengthen the military-affiliated community at KU. The KU Vets Day 5K is proudly presented by the KU Veterans Alumni Network and the KU Alumni Association and supports veteran programs provided by KU Veterans Alumni Network and KU Student Veterans of America.

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Lawrence, KS. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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2026 KU Vets Day 5K 2026 — Lawrence, KS

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for November 15.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Lawrence, KS. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is 2026 KU Vets Day 5K 2026 — Lawrence, KS?

2026 KU Vets Day 5K 2026 — Lawrence, KS takes place on November 15, 2026. The race is held in Lawrence, Kansas.

Where is 2026 KU Vets Day 5K 2026 — Lawrence, KS held?

2026 KU Vets Day 5K 2026 — Lawrence, KS is held at The Jayhawk Welcome Center in Lawrence, Kansas.

Where can I find hotels near 2026 KU Vets Day 5K 2026 — Lawrence, KS?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Lawrence. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.