Get set for the return of Bury Running Festival in 2026

Jane Tomlinson’s Run For All, in partnership with Bury Council and title partner Bury BID, is delighted to confirm the much anticipated return of the Bury Running Festival in 2026. Taking place on Sunday 20 September, the festival will once again welcome thousands of runners to the town for an exciting day of sport, community, and charity.

This year’s festival will feature the ever-popular Bury 10K, alongside the Mini and Junior runs, offering something for participants of all ages and abilities.

Starting and finishing outside The Rock Shopping Centre, the 10K will guide runners along a scenic route taking in Tottington and Bury Road before joining the Kirklees Trail and looping back towards the town centre. Designed to be accessible and welcoming, the event caters to seasoned athletes and first-time runners alike.

Adding to the excitement of the day, the Mini and Junior runs offer young participants the perfect chance to get active and enjoy the atmosphere. The Bury Mini features a 1.5K course for children aged 3–8, who complete the route with a parent or guardian, while those aged 9–14 can take on the 2.5K Junior distance.

This year marks the 10th year since the inaugural event in 2016 and the third consecutive year of support from title sponsors Bury BID, who continue to work alongside Run For All and Bury Council to inspire local people to stay active and engaged within their community. The festival is once again expected to bring a welcome boost to the town centre, benefitting residents, visitors, and local businesses alike.

Jackie Veal, Head of Wellness and Culture, said: “The Bury Running Festival is a brilliant community event that brings people of all ages together to support one another and celebrate being active.

 Whether you’re running, volunteering or cheering from the sidelines, it’s inspiring to see so many people getting involved and taking part in their own way.

“As we mark ten years since the very first event, we’re excited to help make 2026 the biggest and best Bury Running Festival yet, continuing to encourage healthy lifestyles, strengthen community spirit, and give so much back to local causes.”

Each year the event helps raise thousands of pounds for good causes, including the event’s official charity partners: Backup, Bury Football Club, Jigsaw, and the Jane Tomlinson Appeal.

Tristan Batley-Kyle, Director of Operations at Run For All commented, “We’re thrilled to be bringing the Bury Running Festival back for another year, once again in partnership with Bury Council and Bury BID. 

“The event is a fantastic opportunity for families, friends, and the wider community to come together, stay active, and support some deserving local causes. We hope to see as many people as possible join us for what promises to be another unforgettable day.”

Nigel Shields, Town Centre Director at Bury BID, said: “The Bury Running Festival is a fantastic showcase for our town, bringing together residents, visitors and local businesses for a truly positive day in the town centre. Events like this not only promote health and wellbeing, but also generate a real buzz that benefits shops, hospitality venues and the wider local economy.”

“We’re proud to continue supporting the festival and working with Run For All and Bury Council to help make the 2026 event another great success for Bury.”