Run Bentonville is Northwest Arkansas’ signature spring running event, bringing runners to downtown Bentonville for a lively race weekend built around the Run Bentonville Half Marathon, Half Marathon Relay, and 5K. The event starts and finishes around the historic Downtown Bentonville Square, giving participants a tour of one of Arkansas’ fastest-growing and most distinctive cities.
The half marathon showcases Bentonville’s mix of small-town charm, public art, parks, neighborhoods, trails, and rolling Northwest Arkansas terrain. Runners begin near the Benton County Courthouse and finish in front of the historic Walmart Museum, with the Downtown Square serving as the center of the race celebration. The course is not completely flat, with elevation changes that reflect the rolling landscape around Bentonville, but it is designed as an accessible and rewarding road-race experience for both competitive runners and recreational participants.
The race weekend includes a Health & Wellness Expo, packet pickup, race-day entertainment, community support, finisher medals, event swag, and a festive downtown finish-line environment. The event has grown substantially since its first edition in 2011 and now attracts thousands of participants across the half marathon, relay, and 5K. Its location in Bentonville also makes it appealing for destination runners interested in combining a race with Northwest Arkansas’ trails, museums, food scene, cycling culture, and outdoor recreation.
Run Bentonville is organized through Run Bentonville and Bentonville Parks and Recreation, with the race director listed as Shauna Damon. The event is a strong fit for runners looking for a polished regional race with a community feel, especially those who want a spring half marathon in a vibrant, walkable downtown setting.