The energy of May is on full display across Queens, with a lineup of local races that invite runners of all levels to hit the pavement and the trails. With mild temperatures and sunny skies setting the stage, it’s the perfect time to take advantage of the spring weather before the summer heat sets in. From the Forest Park 4 Mile Road and Trail Classic to the festive Great Hawaiian Luau 5K at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, these events offer more than just a workout—they foster community spirit and personal growth. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen before lacing up and heading out. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or new to the sport, these May races offer a chance to challenge yourself and connect with others in motion.
JFK Rotary Club 5K Runway Run – Jamaica (Saturday, May 17)
Dash through the runway at John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport at 9 a.m. for a charitable race that has been active for over 50 years. This unique 5K is a fundraiser for the JFK Rotary Club, a local service organization with professional members associated with the renowned airport. The registration fee is $44.15 and $28.63 for students under 18. Please note that fees will increase on Race Day to $49.33 and $33.80, respectively. An assortment of pre-packaged refreshments will be available post-race. Additionally, participants will receive a race bib to the address provided in the online registration form.
NSRF The Great Hawaiian Luau 5K – Corona (Saturday, May 17)
Enjoy this tropical-themed race at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park in the spirit of luau at 9:30 a.m. The registration fees are $42.08 for the in-person 5K and $44.15 for the virtual 5K. Please note that both fees will increase to $44.15 on Race Day.
If you wish to have a race bib mailed to your address, you must be request it online before Race Day (for an additional cost of $10.35). All monetary donations will benefit the Never Stop Running Foundation, a non-profit supporting seasoned athletes at the local, national and international levels. All participants will receive a Hawaiian Luau t-shirt.
Queensborough Tigers 5K Run/Walk – Bayside (Saturday, May 17)
Take on Queensborough Community College (QCC) and run past Oakland Lake for a school-themed race at 8:30 a.m. The registration fee is $33.80 and will increase to $44.15 on Race Day. All monetary donations will benefit QCC Athletics, the athletic department of QCC. Personalized race bibs are available if registered three weeks ahead of the race. All participants will receive a t-shirt and finish line photos.
Forest Park Runners Classic 4 Mile Road and Trail Race – Woodhaven (Sunday, May 25)
Challenge yourself with this beloved classic, a four-mile course traversing through the pavement and trails at 10 a.m. Hosted by Forest Park Runners (FPR), this out-and-back loop of the third largest park in Queens, brimming with elevated hills, will test your endurance.
The registration fee is $40.00 until Saturday, May 24 at 5 p.m. — the fee will increase to $50.00. Please note that race day registration will be available from 7:45 a.m. to 9:45 a.m. at the Forest Park Track. All participants will receive various post-race refreshments like bagels, bananas, apples, water and Gatorade. Cash awards and trophies will be awarded to overall male and female winners, and age-group trophies will also be available.
Young Israel of Jamaica Estates L’Chaim 5K Run/Walk for Israel – Jamaica Estates (Sunday, May 25)
Hosted by Young Israel of Jamaica Estates (YIJE), this 5K takes participants through the scenic rolling hills of Jamaica Estates and Cunningham Park at 9 a.m. The registration fee is $35.00 and will increase to $40.00 on Friday, May 23. For children aged 5-10, kid races are available at a discounted price of $25.00, which will also increase to $30.00 on Friday, May 23.
If you are not running, feel free to support the event by purchasing raffle tickets, starting at $15.00 for 1 ticket. This race is sponsored by Margaret Tietz, a nursing and rehabilitation center in Jamaica. All registered runners and walkers will receive a t-shirt and enjoy post-race entertainment.
