Graveyard 5k Run & Fun Run

Join us at historic Elmwood Cemetery for the 8th Annual Graveyard 5K on Saturday, October 25th!

This one-of-a-kind run winds entirely through the beautiful grounds of Elmwood Cemetery—home to some of Kansas City’s most notable figures—and supports vital preservation and maintenance efforts.

Looking ahead to 2026, we’re excited to announce a 1-mile fun run for all ages and age group winners! We will also have fun activities to enjoy post-race.

Some fun facts about Elmwood Cemetery include:

Keep an eye out for the headstone of Americus McKim, the owner of KC's first professional baseball team, The Kansas City Unions. Without him, we wouldn't be able to cheer on the Royals today!

Kirkland Brooks Armour, the founding member of Armour and Company Meat Packing, is buried in the Armour Family plot in Elmwood. Armour Boulevard is named after Kirkland and his family.

The Elmwood Cemetery is the second oldest cemetery in Kansas City.

It's also the final resting place of 766 soldiers who fought in the Civil War on both sides.

Do you have what it takes to walk, or run with the dead?

Race Info:

8:00AM - Check-in begins

8:45AM - All runners must be checked in

9:00AM - 5k begins

9:30AM - 1-Mile Fun Run begins

10:15AM - Awards

10:30AM - Cemetery Tours begin

12:00PM - Event Ends

Following the race, stick around for beer and wine tastings, cemetery tours and more!

Registration Dates and Fees:

Through August 31st - $35 for 5k and $25 for Fun Run

September 1st - September 30th - October 5th - $40 for 5k and $30 for Fun Run

October 1st - October 26th - $45 for 5k and $35 for Fun Run

Packet pickup will be on Friday, October 24th from 4:00-6:30pm at Dick's Sporting Goods (5600 Antioch Rd, Merriam, KS 66202)

NOTE: Shirt sizes are guaranteed to those who order by October 1st. After that, shirt sizes are limited.