Just for the Helena of It 2026

About Just for the Helena of It

Just for the Helena of It is a running event with half marathon, 10K, 5K and Kids Mini Mile distances, plus virtual options, put on by Treasure State Runners, a nonprofit founded by four Helena women. The first race ran in October 2022, drew 350 runners from 13 states and raised $17,000 for The Friendship Center. It has run every October since; by 2026 organizers reported $121,000 raised for Helena charities over the event's history, with 2026 proceeds going to The Friendship Center and Girls Thrive.

The 2026 race is Sunday, October 18, starting near Country Club Avenue. The 10K runs on the Rails to Trails and Centennial pathways and is described by organizers as fast and flat; the half marathon and 10K weave an out-and-back through Helena's historic and scenic areas, and the 5K is a shorter, family-friendly course. Registration costs range from $35 for the Kids Mini Mile to $85 for the half marathon, with prices increasing after September 30. Virtual versions of each distance are also offered for those who cannot run in Helena that day.

What happens

• Half marathon, 10K, 5K and Kids Mini Mile (ages 5-12) distances
• 10K route follows the Rails to Trails and Centennial pathways
• Half marathon and 10K wind through Helena's historic and scenic areas
• Proceeds benefit The Friendship Center and Girls Thrive
• Virtual race options for all distances

Tips

• This is an October race, not a midsummer event, despite the name sounding like a summer festival
• Registration opens in the spring (March 2026) and prices rise after September 30
• The 10K is billed as fast and flat if you're chasing a personal record
• Kids Mini Mile is a short loop next to the finish-line celebration, good for families