Road runners will take to the streets of downtown Sylva for the Greening Up the Mountain’s annual 5K race, held at 9 a.m. the morning of the festival.

Racers are encouraged to sign up in advance by visiting the Jackson County Recreation Department, picking up a brochure at Motion Makers Bike Shop or going online to www.rec.jacksonnc.org. Registration is $20. All runners will receive a T-shirt and goody bag.

Race day registration also is available beginning at 8:15 a.m. the day of the race.

This year’s 5K will serve as a fundraiser for a Relay for Life team lead by Rec Department Wellness Coordinator Jennifer Pressley.

“This is my team’s main fundraiser,” Pressley said.

The partnership allows runners to get some exercise and give back to their community.

“The majority of the money comes right back to Jackson County,” Pressley said. “It provides resources for people who have recently been diagnosed with cancer.”

The race will begin at Mark Watson Park, winding its way up behind the historic courthouse with two climbs up Savannah Drive and Wilkes Crescent, and returning to the park for the finish.

For more information about the race, call 828.293.3053.