Apple Festival Races Celebrate 50 Years of Community and Tradition
The Henderson County Chamber of Commerce, together with presenting sponsor Hunter Subaru and community partners, is excited to invite runners, walkers, families and community members to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Apple Festival Races on Saturday, September 5th, 2026.
For five decades, the Apple Festival Races have brought generations of participants together as part of the NC Apple Festival weekend. What began as a local race has grown into a cherished community tradition that welcomes runners of all ages and experience levels. More than a race, the Apple Festival Races have become a tradition that connects neighbors, families, friends and visitors through a shared celebration of health, community and Henderson County pride!
“I first ran the Apple Festival Races in 1978 to prepare for my upcoming college cross country season,” said Greg Walker, former Town of Fletcher Parks & Recreation Director and Apple Festival Races Enthusiast. “At the time, it was a 15K race and quite a challenge. From 1994-2000 I served as Race Director, and it became a 10K race that started and finished at Pro’s Pizza and was included in the Grand Prix Race Circuit. We always drew some of the best runners in WNC. Throughout all those years personally competing, directing, or planning the Races, I have enjoyed each stage and have been blessed to help provide area runners a challenge and reason to stay fit for 50 years!”
This year’s event will continue to feature the Individual 8k, Individual 5k and the family favorite Chick-fil-A Mini Moo Mile. All participants will receive an iconic 50th anniversary race shirt and a finisher medal while supplies last, including the return of the crowd-favorite, Mini Moo Cookie Medal for every Chick-fil-A Mini Moo Miler.
Beyond the races, participants and spectators are invited to enjoy the event’s festive Race Village featuring local health and wellness businesses and community organizations. From physical therapists and fitness professionals to the Hendersonville Family YMCA and Foot Rx, attendees can connect with valuable resources that support healthy lifestyles year-round.
New for this year, the Apple Festival Races are also offering virtual 5K and 8K options, providing an opportunity for participants to be part of the celebration even if they’re traveling over the long Labor Day Weekend.
Organizers encourage participants to register soon, as early bird pricing ends July 11th for each race category. Not ready to run, but still want to participate in this year’s races? Join us by volunteering! Reach out to the Chamber at chamber@hendersoncountychamber.org.
Whether you're chasing a personal best, cheering on a Mini Moo runner, visiting the Race Village, or participating virtually from your Labor Day getaway, there's a place for everyone in the Apple Festival Races. For 50 years, this event has been about bringing people together—and we can't wait to celebrate that tradition again with our community.
“We are pleased to continue offering the Apple Festival Races to the runners, walkers and visitors to Henderson County. What started as a way to promote workforce wellbeing has turned into a community celebration of fitness for people of all ages and abilities. We are excited to see the growth and success of these historic races,” Bill McKibbin, Chair of the Board, Henderson County Chamber.
Alongside Hunter Subaru and Chick-fil-A, the Chamber is grateful for the support of sponsors Kick It Events, Cummins, Lassonde Pappas, Mountain Credit Union, Asheville Regional Airport, GFL Environmental, Kudzu Project Podcast, Lucey Agency, Park National Bank, Foot Rx, Green Light Ink Screen-printing, proactIV Hydration & Wellness, First Bank, Girls on the Run, Looking Glass Realty, Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard, Hendersonville Family YMCA and Lamar Advertising.
**Photos included in this press release were provided by members of the Hendersonville Camera Club: Gary Lightner, Dennis Guffey, Bob Coffey, and Steve Simpson.