The Saints Kickoff Run, presented by Hancock Whitney, takes place at Champions Square in New Orleans on September 26, 2026, starting at 7:30 AM. The event offers two distances: a 1-mile option and a 5-mile option, making it accessible for runners of varying abilities. Entry fees range from $25 to $70 depending on your chosen distance and registration timing. This race kicks off before the New Orleans Saints' home opener, drawing local runners and visiting athletes to the downtown venue. Whether you're looking for a quick mile or a longer warm-up run, the Saints Kickoff Run provides a straightforward racing option in New Orleans.
From the Race Organizer
Participant Perks The 2026 Saints Kickoff Run, presented by Hancock Whitney, will be held live and in person! The run will start in Champions Square and will finish on the 50-yard line of the Caesars Superdome. A post-race party with live entertainment and a beer garden will take place after the race in Champions Square. All runners will receive an official “Saints 5K” participant shirt and finishers medal. Can’t make it in person? Sign up as a virtual runner and receive all the run swag when you run at your own pace and in your own place! Kickoff the Saints season with fun and fitness! Exclusive 2026 Official “Saints 5K” participant shirt Commemorative Finisher Medal Finish on the 50-yard line of Caesars Superdome Field 2 Free Beers (21+ only) Live Finisher Results Race Time: The Saints Kickoff 5K Run race will start at 7:30am. Kids Fun Run Get your kids involved in kicking off the 2026 Saints football season by participating in the Kids Fun Run! Kids will get excited about fitness when they lace up their shoes and enjoy the half-mile run, which starts at Champions Square and finishes on the Caesars Superdome 50-Yard Line. All kids will receive a short-sleeved tee and a kid’s commemorative finisher’s medal. Race Time: The Kids 1/2 Mile Fun Run race will start at 9:15am. T eam Challenge Cup You can be a part of the Saints season by joining in the Saints Team Challenge Cup. Just sign your friends, family, and coworkers up as a team on the race registration page and the group that brings the most runners to the start line on Saturday September 26, 2026 wins! It’s that simple. Awards will be presented to the top 3 largest teams. To register with a team, indicate your team status during registration by selecting "Yes" in the teams section of your order form. IMPORTANT: When entering your team name, all team members MUST use the exact same spelling in order to be entered on the same team. RUN FOR THE CAUSE - SUPPORT THE LOUISIANA NATIONAL GUARD The Saints Kickoff Run is proud to support the Louisiana National Guard Foundation. More than just a race, it blends fitness, fun, and football into a high-energy celebration of community and charity. Each year, thousands unite to run, cheer, and give back, making it a signature event that captures the heart of the city and the spirit of the team. Want to make an impact? Make a $10+ donation and run with a special charity bib to show your support! All donations go directly to this amazing charity. Visit Saints5K.com for full event details. Questions? We're here to help! E-mail info@saints5k.com
Hotels Near This Race
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SAINTS KICKOFF RUN Presented by Hancock Whitney 2026 — New Orleans, LA
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for September 26.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to New Orleans, LA.
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
When is SAINTS KICKOFF RUN Presented by Hancock Whitney 2026 — New Orleans, LA?
SAINTS KICKOFF RUN Presented by Hancock Whitney 2026 — New Orleans, LA takes place on September 26, 2026. The race is held in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Where is SAINTS KICKOFF RUN Presented by Hancock Whitney 2026 — New Orleans, LA held?
SAINTS KICKOFF RUN Presented by Hancock Whitney 2026 — New Orleans, LA is held at Champions Square in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Where can I find hotels near SAINTS KICKOFF RUN Presented by Hancock Whitney 2026 — New Orleans, LA?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in New Orleans. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
