Thousands Run Wicked 10k in Virginia Beach
Over 6,800 runners participated in the annual costume-themed race held at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Running
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The annual Wicked 10k race drew more than 6,800 participants to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront on October 31, 2026. Runners wearing costumes navigated a route that began at the Convention Center on 19th Street.
Why it matters
The event serves to support Spike's K9 Fund and boost local tourism. The organization relies on community participation to provide medical care, training, and protective equipment for working dogs.
The event saw over 6,800 participants join the race, contributing to a total of more than $50,000 raised for Spike's K9 Fund over the past decade. This compares to the $200,000 the city provided in total sponsorship for J&A Racing events last year.
The players
J&A Racing
This organization is a professional events company responsible for managing various races across the Virginia Beach area.
Spike's K9 Fund
This nonprofit organization provides specialized protective equipment, medical care, and training programs for working K9s.
The details
Organized by J&A Racing, the course led runners from the starting point at the Convention Center onto the boardwalk for a run along the concrete path. Participants donned various costumes as they completed the 10k distance through the city.
Timeline
The Wicked 10k race occurred on October 31, 2026.
The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon occurs annually in March.
The Surf N Santa 5 Miler occurs annually in December.
Season Trajectory
The race follows a seasonal event structure established by the Yuengling Shamrock Marathon, demonstrating the local tourism industry's reliance on recurring athletic challenges. These events maintain a consistent cycle of engagement that supports local infrastructure and commerce.
The race utilizes the boardwalk path, impacting local pedestrian traffic patterns throughout the Virginia Beach Oceanfront during the event. Participants and spectators should note that the course layout begins specifically at the Convention Center on 19th Street.
The takeaway
Large-scale community races like the Wicked 10k play a central role in both regional tourism and charitable fundraising goals. Runners can support local organizations by participating in these recurring events that anchor the city's annual athletic calendar.
Further reading
Learn more about local endurance events on the Running page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Daily Press.
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