Around the World Run
When is Around the World Run?
Around the World Run takes place on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 in Fayetteville, NC.
What distances does Around the World Run offer?
Around the World Run offers 3 events: 5K, 5K Virtual, 10K Virtual.
| Event | Distance | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5K | 3.1 mi | $30.00 | Register |
| 5K Virtual | 3.1 mi | $25.00 | Register |
| 10K Virtual | 6.2 mi | $25.00 | Register |
How much does Around the World Run cost?
Registration for Around the World Run starts at $25.00. Prices vary by event distance.
Where is Around the World Run held?
Around the World Run is held in Fayetteville, NC at Cape Fear Botanical Gardens.
About Around the World Run
WHAT
Around the World Run.
The Around the World Run is a part of the 48th International Folk Festival - the longest running multicultural festival in the region. It brings communities together in Fayetteville, NC each year to celebrate the richness of our diverse heritage as ONE COMMUNITY. The festival will take place September 25 - 27, 2026 and will feature fantastic food, and breathtaking performances.
DISTANCES OFFERED
In Person Event:
5K Run/Walk - this event is timed
Virtual Events:
5K
10K
WHEN
In Person Race: Saturday, September 27, 2025
Virtual: Run anytime, anywhere and submit your results between September 6th and September 18th, 2025.
START / FINISH LINE LOCATION
Start Line & Parking:
Cape Fear Botanical Garden
536 N. Eastern Blvd.
Fayetteville, NC 28301
**All race participants in any event can bring proof of registration to the Cape Fear Botanical Garden for a 50% discount on entry between September 24th and September 28th!
VIRTUAL EVENT SUBMIT YOUR RESULTS
- You can run anywhere!
- Submit your finish times to the RESULTS section of this website anytime September 9 - 23, 2026.
- If you register by September 16th, you can choose to pick up your shirt at packet pickup, or pay a small fee to have it mailed.
HOW TO REGISTER
Register Before the Race: Click on the SIGN UP button in the upper right corner
Register At Pre-Race Packet Pickup or On Race Day: To register at packet pickup or at the race, we will provide a QR code for you to register on your phone. You can also register online from your phone or device up until the race starts.
HOW TO DONATE
If you would like to donate to the Friends of Civil Affairs, you can donate during your race registration, or click on Donate above
RACE SCHEDULE & PACKET PICKUP
Click HERE for full schedule of events
HOW YOUR REGISTRATION MAKES A DIFFERENCE
The Friends of Civil Affairs (FOCA) Around the World Run is a running event dedicated to the global mission of Civil Affairs Soldiers and their families. The Around the World Run raises money for the FOCA Scholarship Fund that awards merit and needs-based scholarships to spouses and children. You can participate in person or virtually.
Course Map
SCHEDULE
PRE-RACE PACKET PICKUP
Friday, September 25, 2026
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Sols Arcade & Taproom
421 Maiden Ln
Fayetteville, NC 28301
Cannot make it to pre-race packet pickup? No Worries!
Family or a friend can pick up for you. You can pick up at the race starting 1 hour prior to the race start.
RACE DAY
Saturday, September 26, 2026
Cape Fear Botanical Garden
536 N. Eastern Blvd.
Fayetteville, NC 28301
7:00 AM - Registration Opens
8:00 AM - 5K Starts
9:00 AM - Awards (This time is approximate.)
VIRTUAL PARTICIPANTS
SWAG: If you did not pay to have your packet mailed, you can pick up your items at Pre-Race Packet Pickup.
RESULTS: You can submit your results September 9 - 23, 2026, by clicking on the RESULTS link in the above menu.