
From the Organizer
The 2026 W. C. Young Community Center Emancipation Celebration 5K Run/Walk Race is in commemoration of the 163rd anniversary of when the news of the 1863 Emancipation Proclamation reached the enslaved people in Kentucky and Tennessee, on August 8, 1863. This celebratory race is part of a week of events centered on reflection, freedom, family, fellowship, education, health & wellness, justice, equality, and fortitude. The scenic route begins and ends at the Robert Coleman Park, at 1100 Walter Jetton Blvd, in the heart of the Southside of Paducah, KY. Join us for an invigorating day of fitness and fun!
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A 7-day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
89°
Typical Low
68°
Chance of Rain
21%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Brookport Dam 52, 5 mi from the venue.
Host City
Population
26,894
as of 2023
Nearest Airport
PAH
Barkley Regional Airport · 6 mi
Major Hub
BNA
Nashville International Airport · 127 mi
Time Zone
Central Time
From Endurance Grid
A mid-size host city. Enough lodging and amenities to keep race weekend easy, without big-city sprawl.
Race Location
Coming Up
Run Under The Stars™ Paducah, KY
Less than a mile away
Super 5K Run/Walk
9 miles away
Freedom 5K Celebration @ Independence Bank
Less than a mile away
Spokes for Strokes 2026
Less than a mile away
From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
2026 WCYCC Emancipation Celebration 5K Run/Walk
Aug 8, 2026