As Veterans Day approaches on November 11, race organizers across the country are opening their start lines — and waiving their registration fees — for the veterans and service members who inspired the holiday in the first place. From Boston to Colorado Springs, this week's race calendar is full of free and deeply discounted entries for anyone who has worn the uniform.
Boston Honors Its Wounded Veterans
The DAV 5K Boston takes place Saturday, November 7 at DCR Fort Independence on Castle Island, with free entries for veterans, active-duty troops, and service members. Organized to benefit the DAV Department of Massachusetts, the race is built around a simple goal: making sure "our injured heroes are not alone on their road to recovery." The free veteran registration tier has already sold out this year, a sign of how much demand exists for events that genuinely waive the fee rather than just offering a small discount.
A Nationwide Series Waives Entry Fees
The Salute to Veterans 5K/10K/Half Marathon series rolls through several cities this month, including Kennesaw, Georgia on November 14 and Colorado Springs on November 15. Veterans who register with a valid military ID get a free entry, a finisher medal, and a shot at awards, while active-duty service members typically receive a steep discount off the standard fee.
More Free-Entry Races Honor Veterans Day
In Worcester, Massachusetts, Veterans Inc.'s Run4Veterans 5K on November 8 is free for any veteran who shows proof of service, part of the nonprofit's broader mission supporting homeless and at-risk veterans. And the Shelli Huether Veterans Day Honor Run on November 7 offers a 5K, 10K, or 8-hour ultra format, with rucking welcomed alongside running — a nod to how many veterans already train and move.
A Reminder That Shows Up Every November
Taken together, these races are proof that the running community keeps showing up for veterans well beyond a single Saturday each year. They also echo exactly what Operation WarriorFit was built to do year-round: knock down the cost barrier that keeps veterans, service members, and first responders from ever toeing a start line in the first place. Free entries shouldn't only show up around Veterans Day — they should be available every weekend there's a race worth running.
If you've served and you're looking for your next race, on Veterans Day or any other weekend, check your eligibility and browse open races near you. OWF covers entry fees so the only thing standing between you and the finish line is the training.