What is a Virtual Run?
A virtual run is a running event you complete anywhere you choose—on your neighborhood streets, a local trail, a track, a beach or even a treadmill—rather than at a single physical race venue. You register like a traditional race, then complete the distance during the event window (or on the designated day), and often submit your result or share proof of completion through an online platform (like runsignup.com).
What makes a virtual run different is its flexibility and inclusivity: participants can choose the time, place, pace, and route that fits their schedule and ability level, making it ideal for beginners, experienced runners, families, and people who can’t travel to in-person events. Many virtual runs also include traditional race elements—digital bibs, finisher medals (traditional or digital), shirts, leaderboards, social sharing, and community challenges—while often supporting a charity or cause, so every mile can help make an impact. World Run Day is a great example, uniting runners across the globe in one shared event while encouraging participation that can support charitable organizations and local communities. Additionally, runday.com has other virtual runs for runners looking for an event near Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day.
Unite for a Cause
Join a worldwide community of runners supporting global charities.
Run Your Own Route
Choose your own path and run at your own pace, anytime, anywhere.
Why Choose a Virtual Run?
Ultimate Flexibility
Participate from anywhere in the world, at any time that suits your schedule. On a treadmill and watching TV?
Personalized Experience
Receive a colorful custom event shirt with your name, or maybe your city – making your run truly unique.
Run with Your family
Everyone can participate together at their own pace without the pressure of a crowded start line or strict cutoffs.
Save Time and Money
Virtual runs save you the long drive (and the time, gas, parking, and hassle that come with traveling to far-away events), because you can complete your race locally on your own schedule. And with in-person race fees rising year after year, virtual events are a budget-friendly way to keep racing, stay motivated, and still earn the experience and swag.
"Social Media" Medals
Receive a digital finisher medal you can share instantly on social media—no clutter, no drawer full of forgotten hardware. Many runners “see and stash” physical medals, but your digital medal still celebrates the accomplishment and lets you post it proudly.
Our goal is to keep events simple, affordable, and cost-effective.
Do it with friends—Anywhere
Invite family or friends in different cities and still “run together” on the same event day. Bibs, digital medals, shirts, leaderboards, photos, and social sharing bring the race vibe without the logistics.Send your photos and you can appear in our RESULTS VIDEO with family and friends – anywhere!
What Our Runners Say
Participating in the Virtual Run was an incredible experience! The sense of community was amazing, even from afar.
I loved seeing my name on the event shirt. It made the experience feel personal and memorable.
Running for a cause while staying fit is the best combination. I can’t wait for the next event!
The organization and support from World Run Day were top-notch. Highly recommend these events!
Being part of a global challenge was exhilarating. The virtual format was convenient and fun.
World Run Day events are a fantastic way to stay motivated and contribute to a great cause.
Join Our Upcoming Virtual Run!
Be part of an inspiring global movement and register for our next Virtual Run! Connect with runners worldwide, enjoy the thrill of competition, and support a great cause. Sign up today and receive a personalized event shirt as a memento of your achievement. Let’s make a difference together!
