Entry to Running of the Lights costs $20 to $50, with the race taking place January 1st at Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, North Carolina. The event offers two distances: a 5-mile run and a 5K, with a midnight start time. If you can't travel to the venue, a virtual participation option is available, allowing you to complete your chosen distance on your own schedule and location. This makes it accessible whether you're local to the Clemmons area or prefer to ring in the new year with a run from home.
From the Race Organizer
Start your New Year with a healthy tradition at Running of the Lights! This unique January race begins at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Day and takes participants on a magical run or walk through the dazzling Tanglewood Festival of Lights in Clemmons, North Carolina. Choose between the 5K(ish) Run/Walk or the 1.75 Mile Fun Run/Walk and experience a one-of-a-kind course that transforms the park’s Christmas wonderland into your personal race route. Before the race, you’ll join hundreds of fellow participants for a celebratory toast and a live stream of the New York City Times Square Ball Drop right at the start line. At the finish, warm up with hot chocolate, snacks, and post-race cheer—a perfect way to celebrate the arrival of 2026. Why People Run the Running of the Lights Kick off the New Year in a fun, healthy way with friends and family Run or walk through the lights at Tanglewood Park, normally only open to cars Experience a Christmas wonderland of glowing displays on foot Earn a custom finisher medal Receive a high-quality long-sleeve race shirt Enjoy a festive New Year’s party atmosphere at the start and finish Watch the Times Square Ball Drop live feed before you run Celebrate after with hot chocolate, snacks, and post-race camaraderie Access free race photos and live results Compete for unique awards in the 5K Event Details Date: Midnight, January 1, 2027 (race begins at the stroke of midnight) Location: Tanglewood Park, Clemmons, NC Distances: 5K Run/Walk or 1.75 Mile Fun Run/Walk Registration Options: Regular Registration (shirt + medal + full perks), Economy Registration, and Virtual Registration Start Your Year Bright If you’re looking for more than just a race, Running of the Lights is an experience. Families, friends, and runners of all levels gather to close out the old year and welcome the new with fitness, fun, and light-filled memories. Whether you’re chasing a PR or enjoying a casual stroll, this event is the perfect way to say goodbye to 2026 and hello to 2027.
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Clemmons, NC. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for January 1.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Clemmons, NC.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Running of the Lights 2027 — Clemmons, NC?
Running of the Lights 2027 — Clemmons, NC takes place on January 1, 2027. The race is held in Clemmons, North Carolina.
Where is Running of the Lights 2027 — Clemmons, NC held?
Running of the Lights 2027 — Clemmons, NC is held at Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, North Carolina.
Where can I find hotels near Running of the Lights 2027 — Clemmons, NC?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Clemmons. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
