9/11 Heroes Run - Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania

The 9/11 Heroes Run - Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania takes place on September 26, 2027, in Allentown, Pennsylvania. Two formats start together at 2 p.m.: a 5K (3.1 miles) open to runners and walkers, and a 1-mile (1.6 km) walk. The event honors the heroes of September 11 and those who have served since, benefiting veterans, active-duty service members, first responders and the families of victims. A partnership with GORUCK adds rucking divisions, in which participants carry a weighted backpack and receive an exclusive patch.

The early-afternoon start changes things compared with morning races: plan to eat lunch at least three hours beforehand and be ready for the lingering late-September warmth. The mile suits families and younger participants, while the 5K is within reach of any regular runner without specific training. The weighted option mainly works the back and shoulders and is worth testing beforehand on a long outing.