Costumes Bring Fun to Cooper River Bridge Run

Runners embrace the spirit of the race with creative and whimsical outfits.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 8:10pm

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The annual Cooper River Bridge Run in Charleston, South Carolina is not just for elite runners - many participants use the event as an opportunity to don creative and humorous costumes. From flying hats to banana suits, the costumes added an extra element of fun and entertainment to the 10K race.

Why it matters

The Cooper River Bridge Run is a beloved community event that draws thousands of runners each year. The costume tradition reflects the race's inclusive and lighthearted spirit, making it an event that is welcoming to runners of all skill levels.

The details

Strong winds on race day led to some costume mishaps, with hats and other accessories blowing off runners as they crossed the bridge. However, many participants embraced the costume theme, including one runner who said his 'pickle power' outfit made the run more enjoyable. Others wore costumes as punishment for losing their fantasy football leagues. A couple even ran the race in full banana suits, playing off the 38,000 bananas provided to runners.

  • The 2026 Cooper River Bridge Run took place on March 28, 2026.

The players

Cooper River Bridge Run

An annual 10K race held in Charleston, South Carolina that draws thousands of runners.

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What they’re saying

“Fun outfits make it fun to run.”

— Unnamed bridge runner, Participant

“I picked a lot of 49ers players and they got crippled this year, okay? I was dead last. My wife beat me. She doesn't know a basketball player from a football player.”

— Unnamed bridge runner, Participant who lost fantasy football league

“They had for the runners something like 38,000 bananas, and now we've got two more. We just came with a theme, we were laying out, came up with something and we just picked bananas. No great reason, no rhyme, no reason.”

— Unnamed bridge runners, Participants in banana costumes

What’s next

Next year's Cooper River Bridge Run will be the 50th anniversary of the event, so organizers are expecting even more creative and elaborate costumes from participants.

The takeaway

The costume tradition at the Cooper River Bridge Run reflects the inclusive and fun-loving spirit of the event, where runners of all levels can come together to celebrate the community and embrace the joy of running.