Cooler temperatures, colorful trails and crisp autumn mornings make fall a great time to get outside and get moving in Rochester. From scenic walks and family-friendly events to Halloween-themed races and Thanksgiving traditions, there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy. Grab your friends and family, find an event that fits your pace, and make the most of fall in Rochester with these seasonal events.
September Events
September 26 - Start Time 8:30 AM
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul will host its 13th Annual Friends of the Poor Walk/Run at Church of the Resurrection. The event includes a roughly 5K walk or fun run, followed by a pancake breakfast from 9–11 a.m. Donations support the Society of St. Vincent de Paul's work helping people in the Rochester area.
Photo Credit | Brain Together for a Cure
October Events
October 3 - Start Time 9:00 AM
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Out of the Darkness Walk brings the Rochester community together to raise awareness, support suicide prevention and honor those who have been affected by suicide. Participants can walk alongside friends, family and community members while helping raise funds and awareness for AFSP's mission. Whether you're participating in memory of someone you love, supporting a friend or family member, or simply looking for a meaningful way to get involved in the community, the Rochester walk is an opportunity to come together and make a difference.
October 3 - Start Time 8:00 AM
Rochester Regional Recreation Sports Center
The 20th Annual Brains Together Event is more than just a walk and run, this family-friendly event brings together brain tumor patients, survivors, caregivers, families, friends, and supporters for a morning of connection, hope, and community. Enjoy balloon art, inflatables, refreshments, merchandise, a silent auction, and more. Proceeds support brain tumor research at Mayo Clinic.
October 10 - Start Time 7:30 AM
For runners who want to get off the pavement, Tour de Essex is a great fall option. Hosted by Rochester Running Club, the event features a 7K trail race at 9:00 AM and 10K road race at 7:30 AM. Runners can even participate in both races. Proceeds go toward maintenance of the Essex Park and Quarry Hill Park trail systems.
October 11 - Start Time 8:00 AM
Halloween fun begins at Cascade Lake Park. Participants can choose from a 1-mile, 5K, 10K or half marathon, with a kids dash also available. The event features Halloween-themed fun, custom medals, race swag, and more
October 18 - Start Time 7:00 AM
The Hot Cider Hustle is a perfect way to embrace the flavors and fun of fall in Rochester. Choose from a 5K, 10K or half marathon while enjoying the crisp autumn air and festive atmosphere, with hot apple cider and caramel apples waiting for participants at the finish line. It’s a fun fall tradition for runners looking to combine a little exercise with the best flavors of the season.
Photo Credit | Haunted Halfie
Halloween Weekend: October 31
October 31 - Start Time 7:00 AM
Rochester Community and Technical College
The Haunted Halfie brings a spooky twist to fall fitness in Rochester, with a half marathon, two-person relay, 5K and Little Monsters 1K to choose from. With Halloween-themed fun, festive cheer zones and plenty of seasonal spirit, it’s a fun way for runners and families to get moving and celebrate the season together. Proceeds and partnerships support local mental health resources.
October 31 - Start Time 8:00 AM
The 35th Annual Go for the Gold Rochester is a festive fall event that brings the community together for a great cause. Participants can choose from a 5K, 10K, 3K Family Fun Walk or kids races, making it a fun event for all ages and abilities. With Halloween falling around the same time, participants are encouraged to embrace the season with costumes while getting active and supporting Brighter Tomorrows.
Photo Credit | Bodies Race Company
November Events
November 8 - Start Time 6:30
Turkey Trails is a festive way to kick off the Thanksgiving season while enjoying the crisp fall weather. Participants can choose from a 1-mile, 5K, 10K or half marathon, making it a fun option for runners and walkers of different ages and abilities. With a Thanksgiving-themed atmosphere and plenty of seasonal spirit, it’s a great way to get moving before the holiday celebrations begin.
November 26 - Start Time 9:00 AM
The Rochester Turkey Trot is a Thanksgiving Day tradition that brings the community together for a fun and festive 5K run and walk. It’s a great way to get some fresh air, enjoy the crisp fall weather and start the holiday with a little movement before gathering around the table. Grab your family and friends and make the Turkey Trot part of your Thanksgiving tradition in Rochester.
Recurring Fall Running Events
Keep the fall momentum going with TerraLoco's $5 5K Fun Run/Walk, a casual community event welcoming all ages and paces. Each week features a different local nonprofit, with 100% of the $5 entry benefiting that week's organization, making it a fun way to get outside, stay active and give back to the Rochester community throughout the fall.
Race information is subject to change. Please visit each event's official website for the most up-to-date information, registration details, start times and course information.
Make a Weekend of It
Why stop at the finish line? Turn your fall event into a weekend getaway and experience more of what Rochester has to offer. Refuel at a local restaurant, explore shops and attractions, take in the fall scenery, or unwind at one of Rochester’s comfortable hotels. Make a weekend of it and discover more ways to experience Rochester this fall. Explore Things to Do in Rochester