Running toward impact: How the Citizens Queens 10K energizes a community

Every June, thousands of runners from across New York City, and beyond, lace up their running shoes for a race that has become a beloved Queens tradition. What began as the Queens Half Marathon back in 1994 became the original Queens 10K in 2012, drawing more than 5,400 entrants in its opening year. And in 2024, when Citizens signed on as the first-ever title sponsor, an impressive 12,105 runners crossed the finish line — the largest turnout in event history.

As part of New York Road Runners popular Five Borough Series and a qualifier for the world-renowned TCS New York City Marathon, the Citizens Queens 10K brings another marquee moment to a borough long known for iconic baseball and tennis events. But unlike ticketed pro games, this event invites every runner — including locals and new visitors from ages 12 to 91 — to join in on the action.

Fueling Small Business and Local Culture

The race's enthusiastic participation translates into more than just personal running milestones. While the 10K draws more participants from Manhattan than from Queens itself, it also brings thousands of supporters and volunteers into the borough.

Dozens of small businesses, many of which reflect Queens' global cultural fabric, welcome the influx of race-day visitors. For cafes and local shops, the event provides a welcome boost in foot traffic and sales. Most notably, local favorite Queens Night Market presented by Citizens spends race day preparing to delight new visitors with local cuisine and music into the evening.

Building Community and Connection

For Citizens, which operates 17 branches across Queens, supporting this race isn't just about sponsorship — it's about investing in the neighborhoods where we live and work.

Introduced by Citizens in 2024, a post-race festival helps create a sense of community and celebration. With free treats from beloved local vendors, live music, and games, the family-friendly event ends the race on a high note. "The energy extended beyond the finish line," said participant Emily Higgins. "It felt like the whole neighborhood came out to celebrate."

Through our partnership with New York Road Runners, we're proud to support not only a race, but a platform that promotes good health, community pride, and local economic opportunity. For everyone from NYRR members to Team Citizens participants — colleagues excited to represent both their city and company — to those runners experiencing Queens for the first time, the Citizens Queens 10K highlights how a shared love of running can help build a stronger, more vibrant community.

As we look forward to the 2025 Citizens Queens 10K and post-race festival on June 14, Citizens invites you to meet us in Queens!