Smile-A-Mile (SAM) 5K 2026 — Birmingham, AL

Date
August 29, 2026
Location
Birmingham, AL
Venue
1600 2nd Avenue S
Start Time
8:00 AM
Entry Fee
$20.00 – $40.00
Events
SAM 5K, SAM 1M Fun Run
Includes
T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

The Smile-A-Mile 5K in Birmingham starts at 8:00 AM on August 29, 2026, giving traveling runners time to settle in the night before. The race takes place at 1600 2nd Avenue S and offers two distance options: a 1-mile run and a 5K. Entry fees range from $20 to $40 depending on registration timing. If your travel plans fall through or you need flexibility, the race includes a virtual participation option, allowing you to complete your chosen distance on your own schedule. This makes SAM accessible whether you're able to make it to Birmingham in person or need to run remotely.

From the Race Organizer
The Smile-A-Mile (SAM) 5K helps raise funds to support our mission. The SAM 5K will start and finish at SAM Place in downtown Birmingham with post-race activities and awards. For those who are unable or do not wish to attend in-person, we have a virtual option so you can run, walk wherever you prefer or sleep-in while still supporting Smile-A-Mile! Smile-A-Mile started 41 years ago with just a single summer camp session for children in Alabama with cancer. Over the years, we have expanded to provide year-round programming that serves children and their families from diagnosis and through the years beyond treatment. Help us continue supporting these families across Alabama!

Hotels Near This Race

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

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Smile-A-Mile (SAM) 5K 2026 — Birmingham, AL

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for August 29.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Birmingham, AL. 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 Smile-A-Mile (SAM) 5K 2026 — Birmingham, AL?

Smile-A-Mile (SAM) 5K 2026 — Birmingham, AL takes place on August 29, 2026. The race is held in Birmingham, Alabama.

Where is Smile-A-Mile (SAM) 5K 2026 — Birmingham, AL held?

Smile-A-Mile (SAM) 5K 2026 — Birmingham, AL is held at 1600 2nd Avenue S in Birmingham, Alabama.

Where can I find hotels near Smile-A-Mile (SAM) 5K 2026 — Birmingham, AL?

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