Dare to Scare 5k & Sweet Treat Fun Run

Dare to Scare 5k & Sweet Treat Fun Run takes place in Manteo, North Carolina on October 24, 2026. The 5K run/walk starts at 8:00 a.m. from the Coastal Studies Institute, while the 1-mile Sweet Treat Fun Run leaves the Virginia S. Tillett Community Center at 9:30 a.m. Shuttles to the start and parking at the finish are arranged beforehand, every finisher receives a medal, and awards go to the top participants. Pre-race festivities are open to everyone, and a virtual option lets you cover the 5K on your own and submit your result.

With separate start and finish areas and a shuttle to get you out there, plan to arrive early and carry a warm layer you can hand off before the gun. The 5K works for runners and walkers alike, and because the fun run comes later you can race the 5K first and then walk the mile with your family. If you are targeting a time, a month of three runs a week with one 5K-pace workout is plenty.