KU Vets Day 5K

Join Jayhawks, veterans, military families and community members in Lawrence on Sunday, November 15, for the 2026 KU Vets Day 5K, an annual run/walk honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans and celebrating the University of Kansas military-affiliated community.

This year's event marks a historic milestone—the 40th anniversary of the University of Kansas Vietnam War Memorial. Dedicated in 1986, KU's memorial was the first on-campus Vietnam War memorial in the United States and honors 59 KU students and alumni who lost their lives during the Vietnam War.

The 5K begins and ends at the Jayhawk Welcome Center, giving visitors an opportunity to experience the KU campus while joining veterans, alumni, students and supporters for a morning of remembrance and camaraderie. Runners and walkers of all abilities are welcome.

Proceeds support veteran programs provided by the KU Veterans Alumni Network and KU Student Veterans of America.