Get ready, Dallas! 2026 is going to be an incredible year as the FIFA World Cup arrives in North Texas! This global sporting event will bring an exciting influx of fans and athletes, and we’re thrilled to be part of the energy.
However, with such a massive international event, our city will experience some changes, especially concerning events, venues, and resources. Our Run Project family is dedicated to providing the best, safest, and most memorable races, which means we’ll make adjustments when the city does.
Here are some important updates: Melon Dash is relocating to Little Elm, and Too Hot To Handle is shifting to a new weekend. These changes are directly linked to Dallas’s preparations for the World Cup. We believe these necessary adjustments are also exciting! Let’s explore the reasons behind these changes and what you can expect in 2026.
Why All the Changes?
Due to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Dallas and surrounding areas have reserved June through August for events requiring city and police support. This means Run Project will adjust some summer race dates to avoid conflicting with city resources, ensuring continued high-quality race experiences. We view this as an opportunity to offer something new and improved.
Melon Dash is Moving to Little Elm!
Little Elm Park, Little Elm- 06.20.26
One of the most exciting changes for 2026 is that Melon Dash 10K, 5K, and Fun Run is moving to a brand-new location: Little Elm Park!
Located on the northeastern part of Lake Lewisville, Little Elm Park offers gorgeous lakefront views, wide open spaces, and a perfect backdrop for a summer race. While we’ll miss our Plano-area tradition, this move opens up a whole new set of opportunities:
- Scenic Lake Views: Picture yourself running along the sparkling waters of Lake Lewisville, taking in the refreshing summer scenery.
- Room to Grow: Little Elm Park has the space to support runners, families, and spectators with ease—plus, plenty of parking and easy access.
- New Certified Courses: We’re creating USATF-certified 10K and 5K courses designed with both fun and challenge in mind. Preliminary maps are already in the works, and we’ll be releasing the official certified maps soon.
- A Fun Destination: With the park’s amenities and lakefront location, it’s the perfect spot to stick around post-race for a little extra summer fun.
We’re genuinely excited about this change because it gives us a chance to reimagine Melon Dash while keeping everything you love about it: the festive atmosphere, the refreshing watermelon at the finish line, and the family-friendly summer vibes.
Mark your calendars: Melon Dash 2026 will be bigger, brighter, and more beautiful than ever before. REGISTER TODAY!
Too Hot To Handle is Moving Weekends!
White Rock Lake, Dallas- 09.12.26
Too Hot To Handle: Celebrating 32 Years at White Rock Lake with Exciting 2026 Changes!
A beloved tradition for many, our Too Hot To Handle race celebrates its 32nd year at White Rock Lake in 2026! That’s over three decades of memorable races, incredible effort, and joyous finish-line celebrations.
Due to Dallas hosting World Cup events from June to August, we’ve had to adjust the usual race weekend. However, we’re thrilled to confirm that the race will remain in its iconic location along the picturesque shores of White Rock Lake.
Here’s what you can anticipate for Too Hot To Handle in 2026:
- Iconic White Rock Lake Location: The stunning White Rock Lake will continue to provide the perfect setting for this cherished Dallas summer event.
- Fresh, Certified Courses: We are developing exciting new certified routes for the Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K, offering runners a blend of challenge and enjoyment.
- Exceptional Swag: As always, we have fantastic shirts, medals, and goodies planned for 2026 that you’re sure to love.
- Vibrant After-Party + Beer Garden: The Too Hot To Handle experience wouldn’t be complete without a celebration. Join us after your race for refreshing drinks, great music, and the camaraderie that makes this event so special.
While the date is shifting, the essence of Too Hot To Handle remains vibrant and strong. We believe this change will only heighten the excitement of celebrating this long-standing race in a year when Dallas will be showcased on the world stage.
The Big Picture
Change offers opportunity. With the World Cup in Dallas, we’re adapting so our running community thrives. These adjustments make room for the event and give you more reasons to run in 2026:
- Melon Dash in Little Elm offers new scenery and fresh vibes.
- Too Hot To Handle on a new weekend keeps our tradition alive.
These changes highlight our community’s resilience and passion. We adapt, celebrate, and run on, no matter what.
Join Us for an Unforgettable 2026
We truly can’t wait to welcome you to these races in 2026. Between the excitement of the World Cup and the energy of our running community, this is going to be a year like no other.
- Register today for Melon Dash 2026 and be part of the very first race at our new Little Elm location. REGISTER
- Secure your spot at Too Hot To Handle 2026 and celebrate the 32nd year of this iconic Dallas tradition. REGISTER
Together, we’ll make 2026 a year of memories, milestones, and miles.
So get ready, lace up, and let’s run into the future—because no matter where the course takes us, the Run Project spirit stays the same.
