Apple Fest 5K 

Presented By: Rhyne Financial

A Lincolnton Tradition Returns
Saturday, October 17, 2026 | 8:00 AM
Lincolnton High School | Downtown Lincolnton, NC

A beloved Lincoln County tradition is back! With roots stretching back more than 35 years, the Apple Fest 5K returns to kick off one of Lincolnton’s favorite days of the year.

Runners and walkers will start at Lincolnton High School before making their way to the beautiful Marcia H. Cloninger Rail Trail. The primarily rail-trail course will take participants through the heart of Lincolnton before returning to Lincolnton High School for the finish.

After crossing the finish line, hop on the complimentary shuttle from Lincolnton High School to Downtown Lincolnton to experience all the Lincoln County Apple Festival has to offer!

Whether you’re chasing a personal best, walking with friends and family, pushing a stroller, or simply coming out to be part of a longtime community tradition, there’s a place for you at the Apple Fest 5K.

Best of all, your registration supports United Way of Lincoln County and our work to invest right back into programs, partnerships, and resources serving local families and individuals.

Run the trail. Celebrate the tradition. Stay for the festival. 

RACE DETAILS

• Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026
• 5K Start Time: 8:00 AM
• Start & Finish: Lincolnton High School
• Race Type: Timed 5K Run/Walk – primarily rail-trail course
• Course: Start at Lincolnton High School, cross N. Aspen Street toward Dixon Street, enter the Marcia H. Cloninger Rail Trail for an out-and back route, and return to Lincolnton High School.
• Beneficiary: United Way of Lincoln County
• Festival Shuttle: Complimentary transportation will be available from Lincolnton High School to the Apple Festival following the race.

T-SHIRT + APPLE SWAG 

Register by October 5, 2026 to be guaranteed an official Apple Fest 5K T-shirt and apple-themed swag bag!

Registrations received after October 5 are not guaranteed a shirt or swag bag, so register early.

PACKET PICKUP

Friday, October 16 | 4:30–6:00 PM
Lincolnton High School

Pick up your race bib, T-shirt and swag bag ahead of race morning.

In-person registration will also be available during packet pickup.

AWARDS 

Awards will be presented to the Top Overall Male and Female, plus the Top Male and Female finisher in each age group:

·       14 & Under

·       15–19

·       20–29

·       30–39

·       40–49

·       50–59

·       60–69

·       70–79

·       80+

Stroller Division: One award will be presented to the overall fastest stroller participant.