Race participants in the 2025 UAB Veterans Day 5K.Join the University of Alabama at Birmingham Veterans Services for the UAB Veterans Day 5K presented by Viva Health, on Saturday, Nov. 14, at Railroad Park.
This community event is dedicated to honoring those who have served and supporting the next generation of military-connected students. Since launching in 2023, the UAB Veterans Day 5K has raised more than $33,000 in support of UAB veteran and dependent students.
Runners, walkers, ruckers, strollers and wheelchair racers are welcome at the starting line. The 2026 race includes a virtual option open to UAB alumni and military-connected community members anywhere in the world. Lace up to celebrate the 108th observation of Armistice Day and join UAB Veteran Services in continuing a proud tradition that began right here in Birmingham in 1947.
Girls on the Run Birmingham Metro is a partner organization in the UAB Veterans Day 5K. This event has grown into one of Birmingham’s most meaningful Veterans Day traditions, says UAB Veterans Services Director Demetrius Pearson.
“We have granted more than $22,000 in emergency funding and direct relief to military-connected students in need, helping cover housing insecurity, unexpected expenses and the everyday costs of earning a degree,” Pearson said. “Together, let’s show our veterans they are seen, valued and supported — not just on Veterans Day, but every day.”
The race will begin and end at Railroad Park, 1600 First Ave. South, and the course will travel through Birmingham’s Health District, an area where health and wellness are promoted. The run will begin at 8 a.m. See the race route.
Registration is open now at runsignup.com. Early registration until Nov. 5 is $40, $35 for veterans and active-duty service members, and $30 for students. Registration is $40 for the 5K Virtual Run, $20 for the 1-Mile Fun Run, and free for children age 12 or younger. All 5K participants except the free Kids Run will receive an event T-shirt and finisher medal in their race packet.Awards will be presented to the top three overall male and female finishers. Age group awards will be presented to the top male and female finisher in each division.
Early race packet pickup will be Nov. 12-13 from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. in UAB Hill Student Center, Suite 313. Race day packet pickup will begin at 6:30 a.m. on-site. Race shirt and finisher medal will be mailed to virtual participants within one week following the race. Volunteers are needed behind the scenes for race day and can sign up online. Follow @UABVeterans on Instagram.