Best For: Performance hunters looking for a flat, urban rhythm and community runners who want their entry fee to actually matter.
Course Character: Primarily flat and runnable with urban street segments and park scenery.
Logistics Score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (London, ON is a manageable mid-sized city; London International Airport is close, but most will fly into Toronto and drive 2 hours.)
Value for Money: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Between the ASICS kit, race photos, and the charity impact, you're getting a lot for your entry.)
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This is a legacy event that has survived 44 years because it does the fundamentals right. If you want a high-production "spectacle" race like London or New York, look elsewhere; if you want a well-oiled, fast, and meaningful morning in a beautiful urban park, this is your winner.
Forest City Road Races 2026 takes place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, in London, Ontario, Canada. You can choose from a Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, or a Kids Fun Run. It is a quintessential Canadian summer road race centered around the greenery of Victoria Park.
What kind of terrain am I in for?
The courses are designed for speed and efficiency. You aren't battling technical trails or massive climbs here; it is a road race through urban streets and residential/park-adjacent areas. It’s the kind of course where you can settle into a metronome-like pace and hunt for a PR. Check the specific routes on Strava ↗ for the 5K, Strava ↗ for the 10K, or Strava ↗ for the Half Marathon.
Should I prepare for heat or humidity?
Early June in Southwestern Ontario is the "wildcard" season. You can expect beautiful, crisp morning temperatures (likely mid-teens Celsius), but the sun starts gaining strength quickly. Don't be caught in heavy cotton; stick to lightweight technical gear. If a heatwave hits, the urban street sections can feel like an oven before you hit the shade of the park.
Which distance is the best call?
The Half Marathon is the flagship, starting at 08:00 AM, and it offers the most "pure" running experience. If you want the energy of the crowd and a quicker hit, the 5K (08:20 AM) and 10K (10:00 AM) are excellent, though the 10K is the sweet spot for those wanting a challenge without the long-distance grind.
What do I get for my registration fee?
Unlike many races that nickel-and-dime you for everything, the standard entry here is quite generous. You get an official ASICS race t-shirt, a personalized bib, a finisher medal, and—crucially—complimentary race photos and chip-timed results. If you are a "comfort runner," the VIP add-on is actually worth it for the private heated washrooms and the dedicated food/massage area.
How is the race day experience organized?
The event is highly centralized around Victoria Park, which makes for a great atmosphere but means you need to be decisive about your setup. The race is well-supported by the Thames Valley Children’s Centre, so the "vibe" is community-focused rather than purely commercial. You'll have access to a post-race food tent, and if you go VIP, you get a dedicated lounge and concierge support to avoid the post-race chaos.
