ATW Bedford Running Festival
Join thousands at Bedfordshire’s MOST POPULAR weekend of running. This is more than just a running race. Conquer the Fun Run, Bedford 5k, Twilight 10K, Bedford Half Marathon or 20 Mile race in 2026! Then relax & take in the festival vibes, with live music, yummy food & drink, plus activities to keep the whole family entertained.
Get ready for an incredible weekend of running, celebration, and community spirit at the Bedford Running Festival! Taking place on the first weekend of September (Sat 5th & Sun 6th), this event is perfect for everyone—from first-time runners and families to club athletes and charity fundraising groups.
With a range of distances to choose from, including a Fun Run (where children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult with their own ticket) for the fun run or any other distance over the weekend. In order to receive a medal, each participant must have paid to take part in the fun run.
Take on the 5K, the atmospheric Twilight 10K, a Half Marathon, and a 20-Miler, there’s something for all abilities. Every finisher will be rewarded with a custom-designed medal and race goodies, and those who take on two or more distances across the weekend (excluding the Fun Run) will receive a special double finisher reward too! This year, our double finishers get to spin the wheel and take home the prize that they land on. With a wide range of prizes on offer, this is one not to be missed. Which two distances will you choose?
Distances
This years Festival will kick off with the 5K on Satuday 5th, starting at 3PM, followed by the Fun Run at 4:30PM. The Twilight 10K will round off the running on Saturday, starting at 5:30PM. Join us back in the festival village on Sunday 6th for the Half Marathon and 20 mile, both starting at 9:30AM!!
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The Bedford Running Festival is so much more than just a race. Across the weekend, Russell Park will come alive with live music, entertainment, a buzzing festival village, a fully stocked bar, delicious street food, a funfair, and plenty of activities for the whole family. Whether you're running, cheering, or just soaking in the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
On Saturday 5th September from 6PM, we will have three live acts keeping you entertained. We will have Fearlessly Taylor singing all your favourite hits from Taylor Swift. Let Liam entertain you with smash hits from the one and only Robbie Williams and a show fit for a Queen.... Andy John will be singing his heart out to none other than Freddie Murcury!! An evening not to be missed! Everyone is welcome in the festival village and it's FREE to enter.
We’re also proud to support local charities, and you can get involved too. Runners have the opportunity to secure a free entry by signing up to run on behalf of one of our official charity partners—simply contact the charity of your choice and start fundraising for a great cause! Link To Change Living It Up Embrace Deaf Access Bedford Mind BLMK & Road Victims Trust
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Charity - Join us in making every stride count by raising money for our partner charity, Alzheimer's Research UK - your run will not only challenge your limits but also change lives, one step at a time, for a cure. Opportunities to donate and fundraise will appear at checkout.
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