Cincinnati Aruna Run

Aruna Project logo

From Aruna Project

  • Date Mon 7th September 2026
  • Time 8:00AM EDT
  • Location Cincinnati, Hamilton
  • Price $42.00 - $57.00
  • Races 4 races
  • Distances 10km, 5km, 1 Mile

Share this event

A diverse group of runners in athletic gear start a race on a city street, passing under a banner that reads "RUN FOR HER FREEDOM" with the word "START" above them. Spectators and buildings are visible in the background.

Cincinnati Aruna Run

Mon 7th September 2026

Email
Messages
Whatsapp

Event summary

Join us for the vibrant Cincinnati Aruna Run on Monday, September 7, 2026, in the heart of downtown Cincinnati, Hamilton! Organized by the Aruna Project, this exciting event brings together over 1,500 participants to raise awareness and funds to empower survivors of human trafficking. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a casual participant, you can choose from a variety of race distances including the competitive 10K, the spirited 5K, or the fun 1-Mile race. For those who prefer to run from home, virtual race options are also available!

As you run, you'll have the unique opportunity to honor a trafficked woman by selecting her name, and you'll receive a special swag bag crafted by women who have been freed and employed through Aruna's Freedom Business. Best of all, every dollar from participant fees and donations goes directly to supporting this vital cause. Lace up your running shoes and join us for a day of fun, purpose, and community at the Cincinnati Aruna Run!

Cincinnati Aruna Run

Mon 7th September 2026

A diverse group of runners in athletic gear start a race on a city street, passing under a banner that reads "RUN FOR HER FREEDOM" with the word "START" above them. Spectators and buildings are visible in the background. A diverse group of runners, many wearing race bibs, participates in a city 5K event on a sunny day. Some people jog while others walk, and a stadium is visible in the background. A group of runners crosses a bridge during a race. A man in sunglasses raises his arms in celebration, running alongside two smiling boys. Other participants follow behind, city buildings visible in the background. A smiling young girl and an enthusiastic woman run in a race on a bridge with other participants behind them; both wear race bibs and athletic clothing in bright sunlight. Runners smiling and walking past the finish line at a race event. The digital timer shows 30:40. One woman in a bright pink "Fleet Feet Running Club" shirt stands out, holding a medal and looking happy. Other runners are in the background. Two women with race bibs joyfully cross a finish line outdoors, raising their arms in celebration under a sign that reads “SHE IS FREE BECAUSE OF YOU.” A race timer above them shows 18:05. A group of smiling runners pose together outdoors after a race, proudly displaying their medals. Most are wearing athletic gear and numbered bibs. The mood is joyful and celebratory on a sunny day. Three young men wearing running gear and race bibs smile with arms around each other at an outdoor running event. A booth with volunteers and safety vests is visible in the background.

Organiser's Description

The Cincinnati Aruna Run attracts 1500+ people to downtown Cincinnati each Labor Day to compete in 10K, 5K, and 1-Mile races (virtual races also available). The run is a fundraiser for the Aruna Project, an international human rights non-profit dedicated to freeing, employing, and empowering survivors of human trafficking, both internationally and domestically. Participants select the name of a trafficked woman to run for at the race and receive a swag bag made by women freed and employed in Aruna's Freedom Business. The best part is 100% of participant fees and donations go to the cause.

Races

  • 10k

    In-Person Race Starting and Ending at Smale Riverfront Park

    $57.00

    CLOSED

  • 5k

    In-Person Race Starting and Ending at Smale Riverfront Park

    $47.00

    CLOSED

  • 1-Mile

    $42.00

    CLOSED

  • Virtual 10K, 5K, 1-Mile

    Race Swag Is Mailed to You in August. Option to Complete Race via ASICS RunKeeper App.

    $50.00

    CLOSED

Book

  • 10k

    In-Person Race Starting and Ending at Smale Riverfront Park

    $57.00

    CLOSED

  • 5k

    In-Person Race Starting and Ending at Smale Riverfront Park

    $47.00

    CLOSED

  • 1-Mile

    $42.00

    CLOSED

  • Virtual 10K, 5K, 1-Mile

    Race Swag Is Mailed to You in August. Option to Complete Race via ASICS RunKeeper App.

    $50.00

    CLOSED

Course Details

The 10K/5K routes feature rolling hills with great scenery, crossing over the bridge into Kentucky. The 1-Mile route is a fast and relatively flat out-and-back course.

What's Included

100% of your participant fee and additional donations go to the Aruna Project's mission of bringing lifelong freedom to trafficked women. Included in your swag, along with a shirt and button, is a beach bag made by women freed and employed in our Freedom Business. When you cross the finish line, you get to enjoy a post-race street party featuring a variety of food and beverage options. You are also encouraged to attend the Aruna Run Expo on Sunday, 9/6, at MadTree Brewing in Oakley to pick up your swag and race bib, as well as shop and visit with Aruna and other vendors.

  • Chip-timed by Race Penguin
  • Post-race street party
  • Aruna Run Expo on Sunday
  • Awards for top individual and team fundraisers
  • Overall and age category race awards
  • Swag bag made by Aruna Artisans
  • Free LaRosa's pizza
  • Available to purchase: Travelin' Tom's Coffee, Better Blend, and Honey Child Artisan Pop

Parking

Ample garage, street, and surface parking are available.

Location

The start/finish line is on W. Mehring Way, directly in front of the PNC Grow Up Great Adventure Playground, right by Moerlein Lager House.

FAQs

  • What time do the races start?

    The 10K and 5K start at 8:00 a.m. The 1-mile starts at 9:30 a.m.

  • Are dogs welcome?

    As much as we love our furry, four-legged friends, they are not allowed to participate in the race. However, they are welcome to cheer on the sidelines along the course.

  • Can I push a stroller?

    Yes! You are welcome to push a stroller in the race. We just ask that you start towards the back to ensure the safety of all participants. A child being pushed in a stroller does not need to be registered for the race.

  • How is the money raised from the run used?

    The Aruna Run series is the catalyst of the freedom process with a majority of the money raised funding our Training Centers in Southeast Asia. It is here that trafficked women come to receive a hot meal, counseling, and skill and trade development to prepare them to step into our Freedom Business.

Event Video

Reviews

Done this event?

First-hand event reviews from people who have been there, done that and got the breathable T-shirt, really help everyone choose their next event.

Add a review

Location

166 W Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202, United States

Who's In

See who else did this event

Be the first

No-one has marked this event as 'Done'. Will you be the first?

Cincinnati Aruna Run

You might like

View all

ORRRC Ghost 'n Goblin 5k

Centerville, Ohio
Tue 27 Oct 26
$26.13

Vito 5k for Heroes Run

Grove City, Ohio
Sat 24 Oct 26 - Mon 26 Oct 26
$22.20 - $43.40

Honda Federal Credit Union Pumpkin Dash 5k

Marysville, Ohio
Thu 26 Nov 26
Free - $43.00

KSU & Crystal Blossom Inc. Breast Cancer Awareness Walk/Run

Frankfort, Kentucky
Fri 09 Oct 26
Free - $27.50

Hustle for Hope 3K

Lexington, Kentucky
Sat 17 Oct 26
$27.50

Java Monster 5k

Batesville, Indiana
Sat 31 Oct 26
$32.80

Win $250
nike.com
gift card!

Sign-up to our email newsletter and you'll be automatically entered into a prize draw to win a $250 digital gift card to spend at nike.com

By entering, you give Find a Race permission to use your name and likeness for promotional purposes if you win. Privacy policy and terms

Image: © Nike