The Solstice 5K returns to Calgary on June 21, 2026 as part of Running Room’s nationwide Summer Solstice race series presented by New Balance. Held on the longest day of the year, the Calgary edition brings together local club runners, neighbourhood neighbours and destination participants looking to mark the solstice with a fast evening 5K.

The event is a single-day 5K road race offered in-person in Calgary with a parallel virtual option for runners across Alberta. The format keeps things straightforward: one 5-kilometre distance for competitive and recreational runners alike, with registration listed as open for the 2026 slate.

What sets this Solstice 5K apart is the post-race swag: every registered participant receives a pair of HOKA Rincon 4 shoes along with a finisher medal. Shoe sizes are limited, creating urgency for early sign-up, and the race leans into the solstice theme — organizers encourage runners to time their effort to finish as daylight fades and the sun sets. The series also fosters a communal feel by staging simultaneous events in multiple Canadian cities while offering a virtual option for those who prefer to run on their own route.

Registration for the Calgary event is open now; because participant shoes are distributed with entries and sizes are limited, runners are advised to register early to secure footwear and a medal.

- **Shoes included:** Every registrant receives a pair of HOKA Rincon 4 running shoes (shoe sizes are limited).
- **Finisher medal:** All finishers receive a commemorative Solstice finisher medal.
- **Sunset-focused run:** The race celebrates the summer solstice and invites participants to "race against the sunset."
- **Flexible participation:** In-person racing in Calgary with a provincial virtual option for runners across Alberta.