Run Nash Launches 9to5K, A Dolly-Inspired Run & Walk Benefiting United Way and Imagination Library
Inaugural Downtown Nashville Event Set for September 5, 2026
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — May 26, 2026 — Run Nash will bring a high-energy, Dolly-inspired twist to Downtown Nashville this fall with the launch of the inaugural 9to5K Run & Walk on Saturday, September 5, 2026.
Benefiting United Way of Greater Nashville and Imagination Library of Middle Tennessee, the one-of-a-kind event will celebrate music, movement, community and a little rhinestone-filled Nashville flair.
Designed to be as fun as it is meaningful, the 9to5K will feature a brand-new 5K course through Downtown Nashville, a 1-mile option for all ages and abilities, the Dolly Dash kids run, a fan-favorite Stiletto Dash, costume contest, themed photo opportunities and over-the-top entertainment. Participants are encouraged to come dressed in rhinestones, big hair, business suits or full Dolly-inspired glam.
“We wanted to create something that feels uniquely Nashville: fun, a little over-the-top and open to everyone,” said Malain McCormick. “Whether you’re racing for a PR or showing up in full Dolly glam, this is about celebrating the city and having a great time doing it.”
Participants will have the opportunity to support United Way of Greater Nashville and Imagination Library of Middle Tennessee through optional donations during registration. Funds raised will help expand access to age-appropriate books for children across Middle Tennessee, regardless of family income, while supporting broader efforts to strengthen families and communities.
“We are grateful to Run Nash and the 9to5K for choosing United Way of Greater Nashville and Imagination Library of Middle Tennessee as the supported nonprofit partners for the 2026 9to5K,” said Erica Mitchell, president and CEO of United Way of Greater Nashville. She adds “This partnership not only raises funds but also helps shine a spotlight on the importance of early childhood literacy and strengthening the building blocks families need to thrive. We’re excited to work together to create awareness, mobilize generosity and make a meaningful impact in our community.”
The inaugural 9to5K is expected to welcome more than 1,000 participants in its first year.
Event Details
Event: 9to5K Run & Walk
Date: Saturday, September 5, 2026
Location: Downtown Nashville
Distances: 5K, 1 Mile, Dolly Dash Kids Run and Stiletto Dash
Beneficiaries: United Way of Greater Nashville and Imagination Library of Middle Tennessee
Registration: https://www.runnash.com/
About United Way of Greater Nashville
United Way of Greater Nashville unites the community and mobilizes resources so that every child, individual and family thrives. The organization fosters local systems of support by breaking the cycle of poverty, helping kids learn and succeed, building strong healthy communities, meeting neighbors’ basic needs and meeting community needs through volunteerism.
United Way of Greater Nashville is creating lasting change throughout Middle Tennessee by bringing individuals, businesses, nonprofits and government together to have the tough conversations, mobilize resources and make smart investments that create lasting solutions for the region’s most pressing issues.
For more information, visit unitedwaygreaternashville.org and follow @UWNashville on social media.
To learn more about Imagination Library of Middle Tennessee, visit unitedwaygreaternashville.org/
About Run Nash
Run Nash is a Nashville-based event company focused on creating locally driven, high-energy running experiences that bring people together. From 5Ks to half marathons and community activations, Run Nash produces events that prioritize participant experience while supporting meaningful causes. With a deep connection to the Nashville community, Run Nash uses its events as a platform to celebrate the city, engage local partners and give back.
For more information, visit runnash.com and follow @werunnash on social media.
