Pittsburgh knows how to put on a show when race weekend comes around. Runners gather at the start, families line the streets, and crowds pack downtown waiting for the finish. The Richard S. Caliguiri City of Pittsburgh Great Race is at the center of it all. Its course flows downhill toward Point State Park, a spot where thousands of people cheer as runners cross the line with the skyline above them. The whole city seems to turn into one long festival.
The 2025 edition takes place on September 27–28. Junior races come first on Saturday. The 5K begins at 8:00 a.m. on Sunday, followed by the 10K at 9:30 a.m. If you plan to head downtown to run or watch, move carefully and give yourself time. Our Pittsburgh car accident lawyers encourage you to stay alert and put safety first when navigating busy streets.
Quick Facts: What, When, Where
The Great Race is no small event. It has been a Pittsburgh tradition since 1977 and is still the largest 10K in Pennsylvania.
- When: Saturday, September 27, and Sunday, September 28, 2025
- Where: Downtown Pittsburgh, finishing at Point State Park
- Starts: The 10K begins at Frick Park on Beechwood Boulevard. The 5K kicks off at Fifth and Atwood in Oakland. Both roll downhill along Forbes, Fifth, and the Boulevard of the Allies.
The Running Events
The 10K is the highlight. It is fast, mostly downhill, and scenic enough to please both newcomers and veterans. Starting in Frick Park, the course passes through neighborhoods before heading downtown to Point State Park. The finish line experience, with its mix of cheers and music, stays with runners long after the race ends.
The 5K is just as spirited. Walkers, first-timers, and casual runners join in, enjoying a relaxed pace while still ending at the same downtown celebration.
Saturday belongs to kids. The Dollar Bank Junior Great Race includes the Family Fun Run, Tot Trot, and Diaper Dash. Children get shirts, medals, and snacks, while parents and siblings cheer them on. The first events begin at 9:30 a.m. Families can expect a friendly, playful atmosphere that sets the tone for the entire weekend. Registration updates and official details are posted at the race website.
Best Places to Cheer (Cheer Zones & Spectator Tips)
Spectators bring energy to the course. Good viewing spots include Forbes Avenue, Fifth Avenue, and the Boulevard of the Allies. These stretches are easy to reach and great for photos.
In past years, official Cheer Zones have been marked on maps, often labeled A through D. Groups gather there with signs, cowbells, and borough pride. The 2025 route should feel just as lively. Race organizers often post spectator guides and videos on social media, so checking Instagram before heading out can help fans know where the action will be strongest.
After the finish, crowds swell near Point State Park. To avoid losing friends in the rush, families should set a clear meeting place in advance.
Post-Race Festivities & Awards
Crossing the finish is not the end of the fun. Point State Park turns into a festival ground with sponsor booths, family reunions, and photos in front of the skyline. Music and cheers carry on as waves of runners arrive.
Later in the morning, winners are honored in the awards ceremony. There is also a raffle for participants, adding a bit of extra excitement. Details on timing are posted by race organizers. With downtown cafés and restaurants nearby, most people stay around to eat, relax, and extend the celebration.
Family-Friendly Activities
Saturday’s Junior Great Race is designed with children in mind. Young runners get medals and shirts, while parents enjoy a relaxed downtown setting filled with smiles and photo opportunities.
Throughout the weekend, there are plenty of chances for families to join in the fun. Skyline views, the finish arch, and the park’s open lawn all make for memorable photos. Spectators help set the mood too. Homemade signs and community groups bring a spirit of encouragement that fuels both kids and adults along the course.
Getting Around on Race Day (Logistics & Safety)
Travel during the race takes patience. Streets along the route close early, and parking near the finish is limited. Many participants use shuttles, which run from the finish back to start areas until early afternoon. Public transit and rideshares are options, but long waits should be expected.
Safety matters as much as logistics. Cross only at marked points where staff or volunteers direct pedestrians. Children should stay close to parents when near barricades. Spectators should remain alert for bikes, emergency vehicles, and moving volunteers along the perimeter.
Legal & Safety Reminder
If you are injured while getting to or from the race, or if you slip in a crowded area, act quickly. Seek medical help, take photos of the scene, gather witness names, and make a report if possible. Doing so protects both your health and your rights.
How Pittsburgh Injury Lawyers, P.C. Helps
Our team supports people facing traffic incidents, vehicle-pedestrian collisions, or injuries that occur near event sites. We help with insurance questions, liability issues, and claims for damages. If you experience an accident during the Great Race weekend, reach out for a free consultation to learn about your options.
Conclusion
The Great Race is more than a run. It is a Pittsburgh tradition that celebrates community, fitness, and fun. The weekend begins with children’s events on Saturday and ends with the 5K and 10K finale on Sunday, all closing at Point State Park.
Join in however you like — running, cheering, or celebrating with family and friends. Just keep safety in mind as you travel the busy streets. And if an accident does happen, Pittsburgh Injury Lawyers, P.C. is ready to help you take the next step with confidence.