What is the Purplewave?
The Purplewave is The University of Manchester’s entry to the Great Manchester 10K Run, where students, staff, alumni, and friends come together to create a vibrant wave of purple wearing our t-shirts. It’s not about being the fastest or the strongest – it’s about having fun, staying active, and connecting with our community.
This year’s event is on Sunday, 31 May.
Upcoming Events
We have some fantastic opportunities for you to get involved in:
- Spring Dash 2026: Join us for a fun-filled 2.5k and 5k run, walk or jog this spring on Wednesday, 4 March. It’s the perfect chance to make new friends and become part of our Purple Wave community.
- Great Manchester Run 2026: Be part of the main event on Sunday, 31 May. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this 10K run is for everyone. Tickets are available for University of Manchester students at a discounted rate of £25. Plus, you can make your run even more meaningful by fundraising for one of our chosen causes.
Get involved in fundraising
This year, you can choose to support groundbreaking cancer research or provide vital aid to students facing financial hardship. By meeting a modest fundraising target, you can even secure free entry to the 10K event. Sign up here to fundraise to make a real difference to the lives of others.
Not keen on running?
Running isn’t the only way to take part in the Purplewave this year, you can also sign up to volunteer on the day of to support with T-shirt distribution and promo stalls. If you volunteer with us, this will contribute towards your Stellify Award.