The Running of the Bears – Vestal, NY 2026

Date
April 25, 2026
Location
Vestal, NY
Venue
Vestal High School
Start Time
9:00 AM
Events
1/2 Mile Fun Run (Not Timed), 5k Walk ($25 Adult or $15 Student), 5k Run ($25 Adult or $15 Student)
Includes
T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

The Running of the Bears starts at 9:00 AM on April 25, 2026, giving you time to drive in the morning of the race if you're staying nearby. Held at Vestal High School in Vestal, New York, the event offers both running and walking options across two distances: a 1-mile course and a 5-mile course. This setup works well if you're traveling with a group of mixed abilities or using the shorter distance as a warm-up before tackling the longer route. The spring timing in upstate New York means variable weather conditions, so plan your accommodations and pre-race routine accordingly. Book a hotel within reasonable driving distance of the school to keep travel stress minimal before your morning start.

From the Race Organizer
Vestal High School students and staff welcome you to our annual 5k road race for charity. Proceeds from this race are donated to Team Hopefull: Fighting Prader-Willi Together. Entry Fee: 1/2 Mile Fun Run (Ages 3-11) - FREE 5k Walk or 5k Run: Adults $25. Students $15 There will be a free half-mile fun run indoors for kids starting at 9:00 a.m. Then walkers start at 9:30 and runners begin the race at 10:00. This is a certified 5K course. The race is chip-timed and results will be available immediately following the race. We have refreshments and space indoors for pre-race warm up or post-race cool down. There are awards and prizes for top finishers overall male and female as well as age- group awards.

Hotels Near This Race

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The Running of the Bears – Vestal, NY 2026

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for April 25.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Vestal, NY. 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

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is The Running of the Bears – Vestal, NY 2026?

The Running of the Bears – Vestal, NY 2026 takes place on April 25, 2026. The race is held in Vestal, New York.

Where is The Running of the Bears – Vestal, NY 2026 held?

The Running of the Bears – Vestal, NY 2026 is held at Vestal High School in Vestal, New York.

Where can I find hotels near The Running of the Bears – Vestal, NY 2026?

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