The Batavia United Way Bat Race starts at 8:15 AM, giving you a reasonable window to arrive the morning of the event. Held in Batavia, Illinois, the race offers three distance options: a 5K, 5-mile, and 10K. The venue is located at 31 North River Street. Entry fees range from $5 to $50 depending on registration timing and distance selection. This October race supports the United Way, so your registration directly benefits the local community. If you're traveling to Batavia for the event, plan to arrive with enough time before the early start to pick up a race packet and warm up.
From the Race Organizer
Batavia United Way is pleased to announce the 13th annual Bat Race 5K/10K on October 24, 2026, beginning at River and State Street in downtown Batavia at 8:15 a.m. for the 10K, 8:30 a.m. for the 5K, and 9:30 a.m. for the kids' run. This chip-timed event along the beautiful Fox River Bike Path has drawn runners and walkers to our lovely town from 30 surrounding zip codes. This event has something for all ability levels, whether you are a walker or a runner: 5K, 10K, and Kids Fun Run. The first 600 5K/10K registrants are guaranteed a T-shirt and swag bag. Race awards will be given for the top three finishers - male and female - for 5K and 10K. All participants will receive a finishing medal and certificate. Packet pick-up: Runners can pick up their packets ahead of time on Thursday, October 22 from 2 pm to 7 pm at Sturdy Shelter Brewing (10 Shumway Ave. Batavia, IL) or at race location on the morning of the race starting at 7 am at the tent on State St. and N. River Rd. Race day brings all sorts of fun - from snacks, music, costumes, & more! What's a Halloween-themed race without costumes?! We encourage (but not require) you to wear costumes. We will be awarding prizes in various categories (e.g., Best Group Costume, Best Duo Costume, Best Adult Male Costume, Best Adult Female Costume, Best Child Costume) for those who want to participate in the costume contest. You can register at the information booth the morning of the race to be eligible for prizes. Without supporters like you, we would not be able to provide funding for 25 local programs or run the in-house programs such as our Success-by-6 preschool scholarships, Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Adopt-A-Family holiday program, and more. Thank you and enjoy the festivities! With gratitude, The Batavia United Way Race Committee
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Batavia, IL. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Batavia United Way Bat Race 5K & 10K 2026 — Batavia, IL
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for October 24.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Batavia, IL.
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 Batavia United Way Bat Race 5K & 10K 2026 — Batavia, IL?
Batavia United Way Bat Race 5K & 10K 2026 — Batavia, IL takes place on October 24, 2026. The race is held in Batavia, Illinois.
Where is Batavia United Way Bat Race 5K & 10K 2026 — Batavia, IL held?
Batavia United Way Bat Race 5K & 10K 2026 — Batavia, IL is held at 31 North River Street in Batavia, Illinois.
Where can I find hotels near Batavia United Way Bat Race 5K & 10K 2026 — Batavia, IL?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Batavia. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
