Best Summer 2016 Races In DFW

By now you're probably already working on getting in shape for the summer, so why not keep the momentum going with a little outdoor action? Grab the family and check out one (or more!) of the fun runs and races DFW has to offer. Themes and charitable tie-ins are limitless; from military to ice cream, there's something for everyone. The best part is that no one has to sit on the sidelines if they don't want to. Many times children can participate in the races, and strollers are welcome too. Whether you're going for that half marathon or just want an un-timed, good time with friends, no doubt one of these races has what you're looking for.

Joe's Run 5K/10K Fort Worth
Trinity Park
2401 University Drive
Fort Worth, TX 76107
(817) 392-5700
www.joesrunfortworth.comDate: June 4, 2016 at 6:00 a.m.

The tropical parrot-themed Joe's Run is a combination 5K/10K event held in Trinity Park. The course is USA Track & Field (USATF) certified, with portions along the picturesque Trinity River. Proceeds from the event benefit Samaritan House, which provides assistance to the homeless, mentally and physically disabled, as well as men and women living with HIV/AIDS. Joe's Run is one of the many ways Samaritan House stays connected with the community it serves.

Killis Melton's Ice Cream Crank Off And 5K Fun Run
Chestnut Square Historic Village
315 S. Chestnut St.
McKinney, TX 75069
www.active.comDate: June 11, 2016 at 7:30 a.m.

While Texas is good for a chili cook off, Killis Melton thought an ice cream crank off would be more rewarding during the summer. Since 1994, members of the McKinney community have gathered each June to enjoy homemade ice cream, live music, magic shows and other family-friendly activities. The 5K is open to participants of all ages, and registration includes a goodie bag, tee shirt and a coupon for free ice cream.

Wounded Warrior Military Miles Half/5K/10K
Williams Square
5215 North O'Connor Blvd.
Irving, TX 75039
www.dallasathletesracing.comDate: June 11, 2016 at 6:00 a.m.

The first Wounded Warrior Military Miles began with about 400 runners. The event grew by leaps and bounds at each showing, and now in its eighth year, more than 5,000 runners are expected to participate. Proceeds benefit Wounded Warrior Project, Fisher House and Team RWB, non-profit organizations dedicated to supporting men and women of the armed forces. After the race, the family-friendly celebration will have food, drinks and live music.

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Hawaiian Falls 5K
Hawaiian Falls - The Colony
4400 Paige Road
The Colony, Texas 75056
(972) 370-4327
www.hfalls5k.comDate: July 23, 2016 at 5:30 p.m.

What better way to beat the heat than with a good, old-fashioned water fight? Well, Hawaiian Falls is taking the fun to a new level with its WikiWiki Night Walk and Fun Run. Participants dodge wet zones, SuperSoakers and water balloons on a route that begins and ends at the wave pool. Registration includes park admission, a tee shirt, glow gear and other goodies, as well as a post-race party with unlimited access to all the rides.

The Color Buzz 5K - Fort Worth
Blue Sky Sports Center
331 Golden Triangle Blvd.
Keller, TX 76248
www.colorbuzz.comDate: July 30, 2016 at 8:00 p.m.

The Color Buzz is a hands-down, glow-in-the-dark good time. The un-timed 5K is open to the family, and whether you choose to walk, jog or run is totally up to you. The focus is on the good times and glow sticks. A total of five color zones can be found along the path with foam waterfalls and cannons, bubble zones, snow and more neon than the '80s. General registration includes a white Color Buzz tee and a glow in the dark tattoo, but VIP registration offers an expanded glow pack and priority access to packet pick-up and start waves. A portion of proceeds benefit Heart of the City, which supports the emotional and physical well-being of children and poor families in low-income neighborhoods.

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