Rainbow Weekend 5K

Race Overview

The Rainbow Weekend 5K is returning during Main Street Kent's sixth annual Rainbow Weekend, which takes place each October in Kent, Ohio, to celebrate our local LGBTQ+ community. This year’s theme is Pride and Joy—two powerful reminders of what our LGBTQ+ community represents.

Event Details

• Date and Time: Saturday, October 17, at 11:00 am
• Location: North Water Brewing Company, 101 Crain Ave, Kent, OH
• Route: Participants will walk through the trees of the Portage Hike & Bike Trail.
• End of the Rainbow Party: Celebrations at the finish line.

Participation Information

• Open to Everyone: Whether you’re running, walking, strolling, or rolling.
• Family-Friendly: Children can run with an adult and cheer on participants.
• Accessibility: The race route is accessible, but some areas may require assistance.
• Contact: Reach out to event organizers with any navigation questions on the day-of.

Beneficiary

We’re excited to announce that the 2026 beneficiary of Rainbow Weekend will again be the Portage County Pride Fund (PoCo Pride Fund)! Offered through The Portage Foundation, this fund exists to serve the Portage County community—students, young adults, families, and local organizations—by helping meet essential needs with timely and practical support. You can learn more about the fund on our Donations page.

5K Pricing

• August 1 - August 31: $25.00 + $2.50 registration fee
• September 1 - September 15: $30.00 + $2.80 registration fee
• September 16 - October 17: $35.00 + $3.10 registration fee
• Children: 12 and under are always free (Registration required)

Included with Registration

Each ticket includes participation in the 5K, a race bib, a fabulous T-shirt (please note that although we will order extra, we can no longer guarantee a T-shirt, especially of a certain size, after Oct. 1), and additional giveaways and snacks at the event. After the race, join us for the End of the Rainbow Party at North Water Brewing Co., during which a portion of the proceeds from drink purchases will be donated to the PoCo Pride Fund.

Join Us

As we run, walk, or cheer from the sidelines, we're doing more than crossing a finish line. We're supporting programs and resources that uplift LGBTQ+ individuals and families while creating a space where everyone is welcomed, valued, and celebrated. Whether you're participating to honor someone you love, to support an important cause, or simply to stand in solidarity, your presence makes a difference. Together, let's fill every mile with pride, every step with purpose, and every moment with joy. We can't wait to see you at the starting line!

More Information

For more details, visit the race page: Rainbow Weekend 5K.