5K Zombie Run & One Mile Spooky Family Fun Run

Event Overview

The Rotary Club of Morganton will present their Second Annual Zombie Run 5K and One Mile Spooky Family Fun Run on October 10, 2026 at the historic Courthouse Square in downtown Morganton, NC.

• Date: October 10, 2026
• Location: 102 East Union Street, Morganton, NC
• Check-in: 9:00 AM
• Start Times: Family Fun Run at 10:00 AM, 5K Zombie Run at 11:00 AM

Post-Run Celebration

The run will be followed by an After Party at historic Courthouse Square with The Firetruck Catering, LLC Food Truck & The Fat Cat Food Truck on site along with liquid refreshment available for purchase.

What is the Zombie Run?

Who wants to run just a simple 5K? In a Zombie Run, you run a 5k while avoiding the advances of the Zombies!!

• Flags: Runners are equipped with Velcro belts holding 3 flags, aiming to finish with as many flags as possible.
• Zombies: Stationed intermittently throughout the route, they will try to steal runners’ flags.
• Awards: Participation medals for all runners: overall 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place medals for those with fastest times and most flags.
• Strategy: Running fast may not be the best strategy to preserve your flags, as being discreet could help.

What is the Family Fun Run?

This run is for anyone who wants to be part of the festivities without running 3.1 miles or interacting with Zombies.

• Participation: Great for families and friends to run…or walk…together.
• Costumes: Wearing costumes enhances the fun!
• Non-competitive: Focuses on enjoyment rather than competition.
• Inclusive: Suitable for all ages and abilities.

After the Runs

There will be an after party back at historic Courthouse Square - a fall festival atmosphere to round out the day.

• Food Trucks: The Firetruck Catering LLC and The Fat Cat Food Truck on site.
• Refreshments: Other beverages available for purchase.
• Activities: Games and music for everyone.
• Fun: An enjoyable day for all attendees!

Registration Costs and Inclusions

Registration for the Family Fun Run is $10, and participants receive two special gifts after the run.

Registration for the Zombie Run 5K starts at $30, increasing to:

• $35: After September 1
• $40: After October 1

Zombie Run participants receive a long-sleeve t-shirt through 9/25/2026, a medal for participation, and separate medals for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place male and female survivors.

Proceeds and Beneficiaries

The Rotary Club of Morganton raises funds to support organizations and agencies that help the community.

• 2026 Beneficiaries: Funds will be awarded to Blue Ridge Community Action Group and Mountain Aid Project.

Sponsors for 2026 Race

Stalkers: UNC Health Blue Ridge & Emerge Ortho. Lurkers: Packaging Corporation of America. Roamers: Smart Start, Richie May, Hannahs Wash Dry Fold, Work in Burke, Good Books, Fonta Flora. Creepers: Appalachian Naturescapes, Smith Builders, Electronic Sales & Marketing, Blue Ridge Energy. We appreciate our sponsors!!!

Registration Information

Register here now! Send your questions to kimvansickler@gmail.com.

Visit the race website for more information.