Join Discover Downtown Westbrook for another year of the spookiest race in southern Maine! On Sunday, October 25, we’re hosting the ninth installment of Run the River 5K. Pull together your best costumes and your fastest shoes, because this year’s race will be one to remember.
See below for the race route, race formats, and sign up to Run the River! This year’s race will feature official timing, a market, music, and awards for costumes and racers! Join in the fun this October in downtown Westbrook.
About Monsters Run the River
Our Monsters Run the River 5K, which brings runners through downtown Westbrook along our scenic Presumpscot River, is back again this year! Grab your friends, your family, your co-workers, and your dog, and join us in downtown Westbrook for this fun and family-friendly event!
Monsters Run the River is a 5K race with a route that winds along the scenic Presumpscot River and through beautiful downtown Westbrook. This race features a 5K and a Canine 5K race, as well as a Kids Fun Run 1K, starting and finishing in the beautiful Riverbank Park.
Monsters Run the River is a benefit for Discover Downtown Westbrook, a nationally recognized Main Street Program. Our mission is to make Westbrook a walkable, livable, thriving destination. All ticket sales go directly towards hosting more events in the amazing downtown district.
2026 Race Details
Race Course
Just as last year, downtown Westbrook’s Monsters Run the River course is set to begin and end in Riverbank Park, right along Main Street. Racers will run along our beautiful River Walk, onto the pedestrian bridge that crosses the Presumpscot River, and into Westbrook’s charming neighborhoods north of the river.
Racers will be directed along the route, turning south back toward the Presumpscot and eventually crossing the river again to return to the River Walk. In the final stretch, racers will be directed onto Main St, take a wide loop around the outside of Riverbank Park, and re-enter in the back just in time for the finish line!
The Fun Run 1K starts and finishes in the same area, backtracking along the River Walk toward Cumberland St before doubling back toward the finish line.
Event Details
Monsters Run the River features three different races! A traditional 5K run, a Canine 5K, and a Fun Run 1K! It doesn’t matter what kind of runner you are – as long as you dress up, you’ll fit right in.
This year’s event will feature music, a market with local vendors and food offerings, an aid station at the finish, and plenty of energy! Stay tuned for more information to come soon.
Race Day Timeline:
8:00 AM: Day-of registration and bib pickup opens
8:30 AM: Fun Run 1K start
8:45 AM: Canine 5K start
9:00 AM: Main 5K start
10:00 AM: Race and costume award ceremony
Race Registration
Registration for this race will be available soon! Check back soon for more details.
Volunteer at Run the River 2026!
The best races are those that have plenty of help from local volunteers! Be part of the energy and fun, enjoy the breathtaking fall views, and cheer on the racers!
Curious about what there is to do? All the details ready in just a few days. To stay updated with volunteer opportunities with Discover Downtown Westbrook, click the button below.
Thanks to our 2026 sponsors!
Interested in sponsoring Run the River 2026? Click below to contact us.
Photo Gallery!
