When is Freeze For Food?

Freeze For Food takes place on Mar 7, 2026. That's in 1 week.

Where is Freeze For Food located?

Freeze For Food is held in Madison, Wisconsin, United States.

What distances are available at Freeze For Food?

Freeze For Food offers the following distances: 6.2M, 3.1M.

How do I register for Freeze For Food?

You can register for Freeze For Food through the official registration page.

What is the typical weather for Freeze For Food?

Based on historical data, you can expect temperatures between 22°F and 39°F on race day. There's approximately a 11% chance of precipitation.

Freeze For Food (3.1M-6.2M) - Mar 7, 2026 | Madison, WI

Lace up for the 45th Annual Freeze For Food on Saturday, March 7, 2026, a beloved Madison tradition that combines a challenging race with a powerful charitable cause. Starting and finishing at the Vilas Park Shelter at 1602 Vilas Park Drive, this event offers both a 3.1-mile (5K) run/walk and a more demanding 6.2-mile (10K) run. The 5K course winds through the scenic roads and sidewalks of Vilas Park, hugging the northern edge of Lake Wingra, while the 10K provides a competitive route that circles Lake Wingra and extends through the picturesque UW–Madison Arboretum.

The Freeze For Food is renowned for its steadfast commitment, never canceling due to weather, upholding its "rain, snow, or shine" reputation as a standout winter race in Wisconsin. Runners can expect typical race day conditions in early March to include highs around 39°F and lows around 22°F, with a 10% chance of precipitation. Beyond the physical challenge, this race is a significant community event, organized by the Returned Peace Corps Volunteers of Wisconsin-Madison (RPCV) and benefiting Open Doors for Refugees (ODFR), a local nonprofit dedicated to helping refugee families resettle and thrive. Since partnering in 2017, the race has contributed over $85,000 to ODFR's vital work.

Participants of all ages and skill levels are welcome, with the 5K accommodating families, strollers, and leashed dogs. In addition to supporting a critical cause through registration, runners are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items and bags for a race day food drive, directly aiding the Goodman Community Center Fritz Food Pantry. This long-standing event, celebrating its 45th year, fosters a powerful sense of community and collective action, making every step count towards building a more inclusive Madison.