The Annual Running of the Lights takes place on December 8, 2026, in Mishawaka, Indiana, at 4015 Filbert Road. This running event starts at 6:30 PM and offers free entry, making it an accessible option for athletes in the region. The evening timing means participants should plan accordingly for visibility and lighting conditions. With no entry fee, this race provides an opportunity to compete without financial barrier, though athletes should confirm any registration requirements in advance of race day.
From the Race Organizer
Join us December 8, 2026 for a running tour of Winding Brook Park's brilliant display of holiday lights. Winding Brook Park's residents create beautiful light displays each year and take donations for area charities. Fleet Feet Mishawaka is looking to donate a total of $2000 this year. Fleet Feet will start the donations off with $1000 leaving the remaining $1000 up to our amazing running community. We are suggesting a minimum $5 donation per runner to help get us there. Teddy Bear Trot: In addition to your cash donations, we encourage everyone to bring a stuffed teddy bear, which will be provided to a local Non-profit to give kids an extra hug this holiday season. Things all participants should consider: - Register in advance and submit your donation online. - We will be parking and having check-in at the Walt Disney Elementary School 4015 Filbert Rd, Mishawaka, IN 46545. - Participants are required to check-in upon arrival. Participants will receive a safety light that they will be required to wear for the duration of the event at check-in for safety and visibility out on the route. - All participants are expected to follow the traffic signs in order to tour all the houses on display. The traffic signs will have some sort of flashing light hanging on them to make them more noticeable. - The run will end where it started to allow participants to cross safely at the traffic light back to their vehicles. - Volunteers will be on the route to help guide you. - The lights are pretty bright but be sure to bring a light source like a headlamp or knuckle lights to see any potholes or other dips in the road. - Christmas Light necklaces and other festive wear are 100% encouraged! We get some great pictures with everyone all lit up. - Strollers are welcome as long as kiddos stay in them. - We chose a time that isn't as popular with cars, but they are still present. The vehicle traffic is one-way only if they follow the route. We will be running with traffic most of the time, but may also find ourselves running against traffic in some areas. - Leave the dogs at home, it's too dark and chaotic for our furry friends. - If you are not feeling well, please stay home! This protects the rest of the participants and our awesome volunteers. Route Links (coming soon): 3.9 Mile (Full Route) 3.4 Mile (Short Route) 1.4 Mile (Super Short Route)
Hotels Near This Race
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for December 8.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Mishawaka, IN.
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 Annual Running of the Lights 2026 — Mishawaka, IN?
Annual Running of the Lights 2026 — Mishawaka, IN takes place on December 8, 2026. The race is held in Mishawaka, Indiana.
Where is Annual Running of the Lights 2026 — Mishawaka, IN held?
Annual Running of the Lights 2026 — Mishawaka, IN is held at 4015 Filbert Rd in Mishawaka, Indiana.
Where can I find hotels near Annual Running of the Lights 2026 — Mishawaka, IN?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Mishawaka. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
