Scranton 5K and Kids' Fun Run kick off weekend of races

Hundreds of runners take to the streets ahead of the Scranton half-marathon on Sunday.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:26pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, capturing the dynamic motion and energy of runners racing through the streets of Scranton, with the hilly terrain and cheering crowds blending into a blur of movement.The electric atmosphere of the Scranton 5K and Kids' Fun Run sets the stage for the city's premier running event, the Scranton half-marathon.Scranton Today

Hundreds of runners participated in the Scranton 5K and Kids' Fun Run on Saturday, kicking off a weekend of races in the Electric City. The events started at Scranton High School and looped through the Lackawanna Heritage Trail, with runners praising the supportive local running community and favorable weather conditions.

Why it matters

The Scranton half-marathon is one of the biggest races in the region, drawing thousands of participants from across the country and around the world. The 5K and Kids' Fun Run events on the previous day help build excitement and momentum for the main event on Sunday.

The details

The Scranton 5K and Kids' Fun Run took place on Saturday afternoon, with hundreds of runners hitting the pavement. The course started at Scranton High School and looped through the Lackawanna Heritage Trail, taking advantage of the city's hilly terrain. Runners praised the supportive local running community and the cooperative weather conditions.

  • The 5K and Kids' Fun Run events took place on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
  • The Scranton half-marathon is scheduled for Sunday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Kimberly Portanova

A resident of Clarks Summit who participated in the 5K race.

Matthew Byrne

The race director for the Scranton Half Marathon.

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What they’re saying

“Scranton is kind of a hilly area, so it can be a little bit challenging that way, but the Scranton running community is really a great community. Everybody supports one another, and seeing the Scranton residents come out and ensure people on is really helpful. It helps us get motivated on those tough miles.”

— Kimberly Portanova, Clarks Summit resident

“The buzz is here, you know, the energy, the smiles are here. It's great, and I think everybody's extra happy because they know the weather is cooperating.”

— Matthew Byrne, Scranton Half Marathon Race Director

What’s next

Runners will hit the road through Scranton starting at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, April 12, 2026 for the Scranton half-marathon.

The takeaway

The Scranton 5K and Kids' Fun Run events on the day before the main half-marathon race help build excitement and community spirit for one of the biggest running events in the region, showcasing the city's supportive running culture and scenic, though challenging, course.