The Elkhart Fairgrounds “Dash Away 5K” encourages families stay active during the holidays

ELKHART COUNTY, Ind. -- The Elkhart 4-H Fairgrounds is hosting their first annual “Dash Away 5k” a way to get families active and in the holiday spirit while enjoying a run through the festive Christmas lights.

Officials encourage the community to join this festive tradition. The Elkhart Fairgrounds has collaborated with Goshen Health to make this a tradition for years to come and promote healthy and active lifestyles for families during the holidays.

Whether you want to burn the calories off from a holiday meal or just enjoy the race, the first 100 participants will receive 5K swag for participating.

Each participant will pay a $25 registration fee, and they plan to accept cash and credit cards for payment.

All proceeds will benefit the fairgrounds and the community events they have planned for the year.

From 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 27 at the fairgrounds participants will have an hour to make it through the holiday themed course.

If you happen to want to drive through the lights from the comfort of your vehicle the lights will be open to drivers Friday from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. for $10 a car and $15 per passenger van.

The Elkhart Fairgrounds General Manager, Shelly Steury mentions it's not just about the run but also staying in the holiday spirit.

“We’re also encouraging people to wear some festive attire, whatever that may mean to you, whether you're wrapping yourself in lights or wearing an ugly Christmas sweater. We will take whatever.” said Steury

You can visit their website and sign up there, or you can show up early the day of the race if you decide at the last minute that you want to participate. 

Runners will be allowed to register runners up until the start of the race at 5:30 p.m.