
From the Organizer
The Carpe Diem Carpe Noctem Half Marathon & 10K is one of North Carolina’s most unique trail running races, offering runners the rare opportunity to race in the morning and/or evening on the same day. Held at Hagan-Stone Park in Pleasant Garden, NC, this event combines smooth, well-maintained trails with impeccable course markings, great aid stations, and an unforgettable sunrise-to-moonlight racing experience. Participants can choose a half marathon or 10K, race in the morning, race in the evening, or take on both for a full day of trail adventure—making this race a standout for runners seeking something truly different.
Designed for both experienced trail runners and those new to trail racing, Carpe Diem Carpe Noctem delivers a professionally organized event with clear signage, reliable support, and a welcoming community atmosphere. Whether you’re chasing a new distance, testing yourself on trails, or simply looking for a memorable race experience in North Carolina, this event offers the perfect blend of challenge, scenery, and fun.
Race options
Why choose Carpe Diem Carpe Noctem
Carpe Diem Carpe Noctem isn’t just another race—it’s an experience built around athlete support and the excitement of running trails in the daylight and at night. If you’re searching for a North Carolina half marathon, 10K trail race, or a distinctive morning-and-evening running event, this race deserves a spot on your calendar.
*Night Running: Keep in mind that the evening race starts at 6:30 pm. This means that potentially you will be running after dark and will need lights (headlamps preferred but a flashlight will do) to complete the race depending on your pace!
Distances & Pricing
Race Location
About This Sport
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.
The half marathon is the distance where you find out what you're actually made of. Long enough to demand real preparation. Short enough that it doesn't consume your life to train for it. Most people who run their first half describe it as the race that changed their relationship with what they're capable of. Once you cross this finish line, the bar moves. That's not a warning — that's the point.
Race day energy varies by event size, but the finish line feeling is the same regardless. Big races keep the noise going the whole way. Smaller races give you stretches where it's just you and the miles — and that solitude becomes its own kind of fuel.
The half marathon rewards people who show up for the boring training miles.
How long to train: 10–14 weeks. If you're already running consistently, 10 weeks of structured buildup is enough. If you're building from a casual base, give yourself 14.
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.
Coming Up
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Carpe Diem - Carpe Noctem Half Marathon and 10K - North Carolina
Sep 12, 2026