Dare to Scare 5k & Sweet Treat Fun Run

Get ready for a hauntingly good time at the annual Dare to Scare 5k & Sweet Treat Fun Run, taking place on Saturday, October 24, 2026, in the charming coastal town of Manteo, NC. This festive and family-friendly event offers both a challenging 3.1-mile (5K) race and a delightful 1-mile fun run, perfect for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. The 5K course is a scenic journey, beginning at the Coastal Studies Institute in Wanchese and winding through picturesque trails and local residential roads, ultimately finishing at the Virginia S. Tillett Community Center in Manteo. For those opting for the 1-mile Sweet Treat Fun Run, the entire experience begins and ends at the Virginia S. Tillett Community Center.

Runners can anticipate typical race day conditions with comfortable highs around 72°F and lows around 51°F, alongside a mere 11% chance of precipitation, creating ideal weather for a fantastic race. The 5K course features at least one water station to keep participants hydrated. What truly sets this race apart is its vibrant Halloween atmosphere, encouraging participants to don their best spooky costumes for a chance to win prizes. In addition to costume awards, accolades will be given to the top three male and female finishers in the 5K. All participants are guaranteed a race medal and "spooky swag," while Fun Run participants receive extra "sweet surprises."

The Dare to Scare event is more than just a race; it's a community celebration that benefits the annual Virginia S. Tillett Community Center Toy Drive, held every December. For 5K participants, convenient shuttle service will transport you from the finish line's ample parking at the Virginia S. Tillett Community Center to the Coastal Studies Institute starting line before the race. This unique collaboration with the Coastal Studies Institute, OBX Go Far, and the Outer Banks Visitors Bureau promises an engaging and memorable experience for everyone.