Runaway Pumpkin 5K & Family Fest

Lace up your running shoes for the Runaway Pumpkin 5K & Family Fest, an engaging and community-focused event set to take place on Saturday, October 31, 2026, in North Port, Florida. This festive occasion offers participants two distances: a 3.1-mile 5K and a 100-meter Mini Monster Dash for the younger enthusiasts, making it a perfect outing for all ages and fitness levels. Held at the Child Protection Center's Campus of Healing at 5600 Peace River Road, the event serves a vital mission, with proceeds directly benefiting the Child Protection Center (CPC) to support their work in protecting children and strengthening families in Sarasota County.

Beyond the race itself, the Runaway Pumpkin 5K is renowned for its vibrant Family Fest, which kicks off at 9:00 AM EDT. Runners and their families are invited to enjoy a plethora of activities, including food trucks, trick-or-treating, pumpkin painting, a bounce house, and a heartwarming "puppy pit" featuring PAWS therapy dogs. Costumes are highly encouraged for both the race and the festival, adding to the Halloween spirit, with a dedicated kids' costume contest throughout the morning. Typical race day conditions in North Port around this time of year feature pleasant highs around 83°F and lows near 63°F, with only a 7% chance of precipitation, creating ideal weather for a spirited run and outdoor festivities.

This event stands out as a unique blend of athletic endeavor and meaningful community impact. Participants are also encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for donation, which will be distributed to local families facing food insecurity during the upcoming holiday season. Whether you're aiming for a personal best in the 5K, cheering on little ones in the Mini Monster Dash, or simply enjoying the free-admission Family Fest, the Runaway Pumpkin 5K & Family Fest promises a day filled with fun, compassion, and a tangible contribution to a worthy cause.