Graveyard 5k Run & Fun Run

Welcome to the Graveyard 5K Run & Fun Run

Join us at historic Elmwood Cemetery for the 9th Annual Graveyard 5K on Saturday, October 24th!

This one-of-a-kind run winds entirely through the beautiful grounds of Elmwood Cemetery—home to some of Kansas City’s most notable figures—and supports vital preservation and maintenance efforts.

Looking ahead to 2026, we’re excited to announce a 1-mile fun run for all ages and age group winners! We will also have fun activities to enjoy post-race.

Fun Facts About Elmwood Cemetery

• Americus McKim: Keep an eye out for the headstone of Americus McKim, the owner of KC's first professional baseball team, The Kansas City Unions. Without him, we wouldn't be able to cheer on the Royals today!
• Kirkland Brooks Armour: Kirkland Brooks Armour, the founding member of Armour and Company Meat Packing, is buried in the Armour Family plot in Elmwood. Armour Boulevard is named after Kirkland and his family.
• Historical Significance: The Elmwood Cemetery is the second oldest cemetery in Kansas City.
• Civil War Soldiers: It’s also the final resting place of 766 soldiers who fought in the Civil War on both sides.

Race Information

• 8:00 AM: Check-in begins
• 8:45 AM: All runners must be checked in
• 9:00 AM: 5k begins
• 9:30 AM: 1-Mile Fun Run begins
• 10:15 AM: Awards
• 10:30 AM: Cemetery Tours begin
• 12:00 PM: Event Ends

Post-Race Activities

Following the race, stick around and enjoy a morning of fun with community-favorite vendors, face painting, balloon artists, beer and wine tastings, historic cemetery tours, and much more!

Registration Dates and Fees

• Through August 31st: $35 for 5k and $25 for Fun Run
• September 1st - September 30th: $40 for 5k and $30 for Fun Run
• October 1st - October 26th: $45 for 5k and $35 for Fun Run
• Packet Pickup: Friday, October 23rd from 4:00-6:30 PM at Dick's Sporting Goods (5600 Antioch Rd, Merriam, KS 66202)
• Note: Shirt sizes are guaranteed to those who order by October 1st. After that, shirt sizes are limited.

Get Ready to Run with the Dead!

Do you have what it takes to walk, or run with the dead?

Event URL

For more details, visit the event page: Graveyard 5K Run & Fun Run.