Carl's 5K and Fall Fest takes place at 1696 250th St NW in Oxford, Iowa on October 17, 2026, with the race starting at 10:00 AM. The event features a 5K running distance and entry fees range from $15 to $60 depending on registration options. If you can't make it to Oxford in person, a virtual participation option is available, allowing you to complete the 5K on your own schedule and submit your results remotely. This race pairs your workout with a fall festival atmosphere, making it a good option for runners combining their training with a local community event. Plan your travel accordingly if attending the in-person race at the venue location.
From the Race Organizer
Please join us in celebrating Carl’s life and legacy at Carl’s 5K on October 17, 2026 at 10am!! This year we are celebrating TEN years of Carl! Carl was the first cow ever rescued by Iowa Farm Sanctuary. At two days old, he was taken to a veal sale, as male dairy cows are deemed useless since they cannot produce milk. His tiny body had the number 527 glued to his body. Too weak to even stand, his surrender was negotiated. He was so frail and weak that the odds of survival were not in his favor. Through relentless care and love, Carl went on to not only survive but thrive at IFS. He grew into a spunky, rambunctious Holstein, who frequented the attention of volunteers and visitors alike. IFS began celebrating his October birthday with the community, as an opportunity to share his story and for an end-of-season fundraiser. His birthday parties were unforgettable: Imagine 250 people singing to a cow, presenting him a cake and him soaking it all in! He knew that day was ALL about him and he literally was the life of the party! We suddenly lost Carl in 2021 to a hidden illness that he contracted due to being born into the dairy industry, and life will never be the same again without him here. Celebrating Carl’s birthday has always been one of Iowa Farm Sanctuary’s most cherished traditions. This year would have been Carl’s 10th birthday, but now we celebrate his legacy instead. Carl’s 5K will be unlike any race you’ve ever participated in before, as the course will wind around our beautiful sanctuary grounds—our rescued residents cheering you on as you go! You get a 360 degree tour of the sanctuary as part of our course! After you cross the finish line, you can visit with your favorite residents and stroll. Did we mention Cinnaholic will also be waiting at the finish line for you?! ALL runners and walkers are welcome! You do not have to be athletic or fast-- EVERYONE IS WELCOME! Trust us: This event is enjoyed by runners, walkers and strollers alike! We’re also offering a self-timed virtual option for those who cannot join us in person! Registration (both in-person and virtual) includes an exclusive t-shirt, bib, and medal! 3rd Annual Fall Festival: C arl's celebration has expanded beyond the run/walk! Bring your friends, family, kiddos and join us for pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls, cider and painting pumpkins! Stick around after the race or skip the race and just join us for the festivities!! Carl loved a good party and we're ready to keep the fun rolling! We hope you’ll join us in celebration and participation at Carl's 5K and Fall Fest! Please note : Participants who register after September 23, 2026 will receive their entry, bib, medal and cool race packet. Shirts are not available or included.
Hotels Near This Race
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for October 17.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Oxford, IA.
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 Carl’s 5K and Fall Fest 2026 — Oxford, IA?
Carl’s 5K and Fall Fest 2026 — Oxford, IA takes place on October 17, 2026. The race is held in Oxford, Iowa.
Where is Carl’s 5K and Fall Fest 2026 — Oxford, IA held?
Carl’s 5K and Fall Fest 2026 — Oxford, IA is held at 1696 250th St NW in Oxford, Iowa.
Where can I find hotels near Carl’s 5K and Fall Fest 2026 — Oxford, IA?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Oxford. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
