The NM FAROLITO 5K is a running and walking event scheduled for December 12, 2026, in Albuquerque, New Mexico at 9169 Coors Rd. NW. Participants can choose between 1K and 5K distances. The race starts at 5:15 PM, with entry fees ranging from $20.00 to $50.00. A virtual participation option is available.
From the Race Organizer
🎄 Experience the Magic of a New Mexico Christmas! ✨ Join us on Saturday, December 12, 2026 , for the 22nd Annual New Mexico Farolito “Trail of Lights” 5K & Kids K —one of RunFit’s most magical holiday traditions! Imagine running or walking beneath the stars along a course illuminated by 2,500 glowing farolitos (luminarias). In true New Mexican Christmas tradition, these candle-lit, sand-filled bags create a warm and enchanting pathway for an unforgettable evening with family and friends. Hundreds of runners and walkers come together each year to celebrate the season, making the Farolito “Trail of Lights” a cherished New Mexico holiday tradition you won’t want to miss! 🎁 Registration Includes : Long-sleeve event T-shirt Custom finisher medal Delicious New Mexican holiday treats at the finish, including posole, hot chocolate, and other seasonal favorites A truly unique New Mexico holiday running and walking experience ✨ Run. Walk. Celebrate. Gather your family and friends, bundle up, and experience the magic of the holidays under the soft glow of thousands of farolitos. Register today and make the NM Farolito “Trail of Lights” part of your holiday tradition! For event details and registration, visit www.irunfit.org . NM FAROLITO "TRAIL OF LIGHTS" 5K EVENT INFORMATION Event Location: Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute 9169 Coors. Rd. NW Albuquerque, New Mexico 87120 Event Schedule: December 12, 2026 Twilight Kids K: 5:15 P.M. 5K RUN: 5:30 P.M. 5K WALK: 5:40 P.M. Packet Pickup: Friday, December 11, 2026 Fleet Feet Sports 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. FLEET FEET SPORTS North Towne Plaza 5901 Wyoming Suite R Albuquerque NM 87109 NOTE: THE 5K RUN (RUNNERS ONLY) WILL START FIRST, AND IMMEDIATELY AFTER – 5:40 p.m. - THE 5K WALK WILL BEGIN. RUNNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED TO LINE UP AFTER KIDS K HAS FINISHED. PLEASE DO NOT LINE UP AND ENTER THE ROAD/COURSE UNTIL THE RACE DIRECTOR HAS MADE THE ANNOUNCEMENT TO LINE UP. PLEASE NOTE: RACE-DAY REGISTRATION IS AVAILABLE; HOWEVER, ALL PRE-REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS MUST PICK UP THEIR EVENT PACKETS AT “PACKET PICK-UP.” Note: If you cannot pick up your packet in person at the location and time stated below, you must plan for a representative to do so. Any out-of-town participants may pick up their packet on race day at the registration area between 4:00 and 5:00 p.m. at SIPI. Event Route: http://www.mapmyrun.com/routes/view/335479563 Start: Location: Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute The 5K and Kids K start location is near the finish. All races will start promptly at the designated times listed above. Allow plenty of time to get to the start. If you drive to the race, plan to arrive early and park. This race is a Gun Start with a clock finish. There will be no posting times. Overall awards will be presented to the top 3 Males and Females. NOTE: THE 5K RUN (RUNNERS ONLY) WILL START FIRST, AND IMMEDIATELY AFTER, THE 5K WALK WILL BEGIN. RUNNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED TO LINE UP AFTER KIDS K HAS FINISHED. PLEASE DO NOT LINE UP AND ENTER THE ROAD/COURSE UNTIL THE RACE DIRECTOR HAS MADE THE ANNOUNCEMENT TO LINE UP. Parking: PLEASE USE DESIGNATED PARKING AREAS/SPACES ONLY. DO NOT BLOCK HANDICAPPED OR OTHER RESTRICTED PARKING AREAS—NO PARKING ON DIRT FIELDS OR THE SIDE OF ROADS. Bathroom Facilities: Bathrooms (port-a-potties) are located in the east parking lot, just east of the finish and next to the start. Race (Bib) Number Requirements: Each participant will receive a Race (Bib) number that must be worn on race day. DO NOT alter your race number in any way. Your bib number must be visible and worn on the front outside of all clothing during the entire race so that it may be clearly seen. Bib numbers are non-transferable and MUST be worn by the runner to whom they are assigned. Can I run with an iPod/headphones? Yes. USATF, the sport's national governing body, recently amended its ban on headphones, iPods, and similar devices. However, athletes competing for prizes cannot use electronic devices such as headphones and earpieces. Can I run with my Garmin GPS or my Nike Plus device? Yes, participants may wear their Garmin GPS watches and Nike Plus devices. However, these items do not count as “second timing devices" and will not be recognized by the event as official times or distances. What is NOT allowed on the course? Participants are prohibited from using video devices, cell phones, computers, cameras, or similar devices in the event. Wheeled devices or any other person authorized to be on the course shall be strictly limited to (a) authorized and registered competitive wheelchair participants and (b) authorized course marshals on bicycles. Skateboards, rollerblades, unauthorized bicycles, or other wheeled devices will not be permitted. Note: Sadly, no dogs are permitted. Note: Strollers and baby joggers are permitted. They must start at the back of the pack, and your child must always be secure in the stroller. Moreover, strollers and joggers must be well-lit to prevent a tripping hazard o
