International Barefoot Running Day (IBRD) is an informal, community-driven event that celebrates running without conventional cushioned shoes. It is held each year in spring, traditionally on the first Sunday in May.
There is no single governing body and no entry fee. People take part on their own or in small local groups, often sharing photos and routes online. The spirit is low-key: get outside, run barefoot or in minimalist shoes, and connect with others who enjoy it.
When is it?
IBRD is usually marked on the first Sunday in May. Because it is grassroots rather than officially organized, the exact date and any local meetups vary from year to year and place to place.
What people do
- Run a short, easy distance barefoot or in minimalist footwear.
- Meet up with a local barefoot or minimalist running group.
- Share the day on social media to introduce others to the idea.
- Use it as a low-pressure first try, on a smooth and familiar surface.
Trying it for the first time
If IBRD is your first barefoot run, keep it short. Bare feet need time to adapt, and the most common mistake is doing too much, too soon.
Pick smooth, predictable ground. Pay attention to how your feet and calves feel, and stop if anything feels sharp.
New to the idea? Start with our guide to barefoot running for beginners, and read why people take up barefoot running.
This article is general information, not medical advice. If you have a foot problem or injury, check with a clinician before running barefoot.