Columbus Humane's 20th Annual Defend Your Friend 5K & Dog Festival
Sun, Sep 13, 2026, 5:00 AM EDT
- Distance
- 1 Mile
- Type
- Run
Finish signup on the organizer site (check fees and dates there).
Race feel
Run or walk for a cause, then celebrate with your furry friends at this dog-friendly 5K and festival supporting animal welfare.
- Fun
- Quirky
- Festive
- For a Cause
Fun
Quirky
Festive
For a CauseGreat for
- Family Friendly
Family FriendlyJoin Columbus Humane's 20th Annual Defend Your Friend 5K & Dog Festival, a heartwarming community event in Lockbourne, OH. This gathering raises vital funds for animal cruelty investigations across Franklin County, helping to protect pets in need. Whether you run, walk, or simply come to celebrate animals, your participation supports a crucial cause. The day features a 5K run/walk and a lively Dog Festival with dog-centric vendors, welcoming both families and their furry friends.
From the organizer
Join us for Columbus Humane’s 20th Annual Defend Your Friend 5K & Dog Festival, a community event raising funds to support animal cruelty investigations across Franklin County.
Run, walk, or simply come celebrate animals—every step helps protect pets in need. The event takes place Sunday, September 13 at Bank Run Metro Park (1570 Rohr Road, Lockbourne, OH), with the 5K beginning at 9 a.m. and the Dog Festival featuring dog-centric vendors running from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
All proceeds support Columbus Humane’s Animal Cruelty Investigations, where humane agents work year-round to advocate for, educate about, and rescue animals in need. The first 400 registrants will receive swag bags and event T-shirts, and the event is both dog- and family-friendly—so even if you don’t want to run, register and come enjoy the festival.