For generations of Salem-area families, the Awesome 3000 has been a community tradition filled with excitement, school spirit, and a whole lot of cheering from the sidelines.
On Saturday, May 16, 2026, young runners from Pre-K through high school will return to Willamette University’s McCulloch Stadium at Bush’s Pasture Park for the 43rd annual Awesome 3000. Hosted by United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley, this beloved youth fun run brings families, students, volunteers, and local supporters together for a day that celebrates movement, encouragement, and Salem-Keizer schools.
A Fun Run for Salem-Keizer Students
The Awesome 3000 is designed for students of all ages and abilities, with races available for Pre-K through 12th grade. The event also includes the Unified Run, a disability-supported race that helps make the day more accessible and encouraging for every participant.
The energy at McCulloch Stadium is something special; the Awesome 3000 is a day full of proud smiles, family photos, and community support. First time runners, seasoned returners, tiny runners, and older students will all make their way around the track and race toward the finish.
Run for a Reason
One of the best parts of the Awesome 3000 is the purpose behind it. Proceeds from the event help fund grants through the Salem-Keizer School Fund, supporting students, teachers, and programs throughout the district. According to United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley, the event has raised more than $135,000 since 2023 for Awesome 3000 grant recipients across Salem-Keizer schools.
That means every registration helps support local classrooms and learning opportunities in Salem. The Awesome 3000 is ultimately a great way for families to enjoy a fun day together while also giving back to the schools that serve our community.
Event Details
The 2026 Awesome 3000 will take place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Willamette University’s McCulloch Stadium in Bush’s Pasture Park. The race is open to students from Pre-K through high school.
Registration is open now and ends on Friday, May 15, 2026, at 6:00 PM PDT. Race packets will be available for pickup on May 14 and May 15 from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The event notes that race packets will not be available on race day and will not be delivered to schools, so families should plan ahead.
Volunteers Help Make the Day Happen
A community event this big takes plenty of helping hands. From course support and runner check-in to warm-ups, race-day guidance, and the ever-popular “Rabbits” and “Turtles,” volunteers play a major role in keeping the Awesome 3000 organized, safe, and fun for local kids.
For those who want to support Salem-Keizer schools but don’t have a participating student, volunteering is a great way to be part of the tradition.
A Salem Tradition Worth Celebrating
Since 1983, the Awesome 3000 has brought Salem-Keizer families and community members together in support of local students, schools, and community connection. According to United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley, the 2025 event welcomed nearly 2,300 youth participants from surrounding communities, showing just how much this tradition continues to mean to the area.
From the first warm-up to the final finish-line cheer, the Awesome 3000 is a reminder of what makes Salem special. It’s local families showing up, volunteers giving their time, and kids getting the chance to run, celebrate, and feel supported by their community.
If your student is ready to run, now is the time to register, mark your calendar, and get those sneakers ready. We’ll see you at the finish line!
Links for further reading:
- Awesome 3000 Youth Fun Run & Fundraiser – United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley
- Awesome 3000 Registration
- Awesome 3000 is Saturday, May 16, 2026 – Salem-Keizer School District News