Anime for Miles 5K

🏃‍♂️🤝 Fandom as One, Miles as Many 🤝🏃‍♀️

Anime for Miles is where community, culture, and movement come together. This 5K run/walk invites runners of all levels to celebrate Japanese animation, pop culture, and the team-oriented spirit of distance running, inspired by Japan’s iconic ekiden relay races. 

Otaku Run’s events go beyond the finish line: we endeavor to build a shared community, through the values of teamwork and cultural pride exemplified by both anime/otaku fandom and Japanese running culture!

📅 Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
⏰ Start time: 3:00PM Eastern
📍 Location: Workhouse Arts Center, 9518 Workhouse Way, Lorton, VA 22079
🚗 Parking: There is plenty of parking at Workhouse Arts Center: follow the signs!

Merch and goods!

-All participants who register by October 7, 2026 will receive a T-shirt in their selected size. All participants who register after October 7, 2026 will still receive a T-shirt, but size will be dependent on availability.
-Each finisher will also receive a medal as a finisher's prize. Design seen here!

Cosplay is welcome!

Keep in mind that the goal is to complete a 5k race regardless of attire, so be sure to keep it comfy and family-friendly!

Want to volunteer?

Register as a volunteer here to help us create an unforgettable event for everyone!

Otaku Run Club is 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in September 2025 to create an inclusive environment for anime fans and otaku with races and events geared towards our community.

Our mission is to promote and encourage a lifestyle of health, wellness, and physical fitness through team-oriented long-distance running, inspired by the traditional Japanese sport of team-based relay running known as ekiden, with specific focus on outreach to the broad community of fans and enthusiasts of Japanese animation, media, and pop-culture.

For more information on our organization, visit our website at https://otakurun.org

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Anime for Miles 5K Course - 2026

• What is included in the registration fee?
  Registration includes race entry, race bib, and T-shirt (T-shirt of selected size guaranteed only for those who register by October 7, 2026). Finishers will receive a medal as a finisher prize.
• Are there refunds?
  We do not allow refunds; however, registrants may apply the credit toward any future 5k race event hosted by Otaku Run.
• What do I wear?
  Anything comfortable for you to complete a 5K is allowed, but athletic-friendly cosplay is a plus!  This is a family-friendly event, so we ask all participants to be mindful of their costumes.
• Can I run in cosplay?
  Yes, cosplay is encouraged!  However, it is the responsibility of the participant to ensure both adequate comfort and family-friendliness of the cosplay.  Unacceptable cosplays may be ejected from the venue at the discretion of the event team.
• Will the race be formally timed?
  Yes - the event will be chip-timed, with timing results available on RunSignup.
• What is the course?
  The course is an easily navigable out-and-back on paved and dirt trails with no major road crossings and is very accommodating for first-time runners!
• Will there be aid stations with water and sports drinks?
  Yes, there will be one water station, one aid station at the turnaround point with water and sports drinks (e.g. Gatorade), and post-race water, sports drinks, and snacks available at the finish line!
• Restrooms/facilities?
  Workhouse Arts Center has interior restrooms available for public use.  Depending on capacity, we may have portable toilets available at the Start/Finish for more convenient access.
• Can I change the information I filled out during registration?
  Yes, you can change your information by clicking the “Manage Your Registration” link in your confirmation email. If you encounter technical difficulties, please send an e-mail to info AT otakurun.org
• Where do I register on race day?
  There may be very limited on-site registration assuming we do not sell out: it is highly recommended you register in advance.
• Can I run the race without registering?
  No. You must be registered to participate in the event.
• When is race check-in?
  Check-in and day-of registration will be held one hour before the race: starting at 2:00PM EST on Saturday, November 7, 2026.
• Can I exchange my shirt for a different size?
  Yes, if your desired shirt size is not sold out.
• Can I walk the 5K?
  Yes! All participants are invited to participate safely.
• How do I volunteer?
  Sign up to volunteer here.
• How do I get my volunteer form signed?
  Report to the on-site event team to have your hours signed off.
• I am joining from out of town - how do I get to the race and where should I stay?
  Workhouse Arts Center is a short hop off I-95 in Lorton, VA. The closest airports are Washington Reagan (DCA) and Dulles (IAD). The closest hotel is Holiday Inn Express Lorton by IHG about a 3 mi/10 minute drive away.  About 15-20 minutes south in Woodbridge, VA, you will find a smattering of hotels in the immediate Potomac Mills mall area including a Courtyard by Marriott and a Spark By Hilton.  We do not formally endorse nor are we sponsored by these hotels - all we did was Google for you.
• What nearby activities are available for out-of-towners?
  Aside from evening activties at Workhouse Arts Center itself, Bunnyman Brewing is available onsite at Workhouse Arts Center for post-race festivities for those of drinking age.  For those who enjoy arcades, about 20 minutes south in Woodbridge is a Round 1.