Popcorn Panic 5M Run & 5K Run/Walk takes place at 63 Lafayette Street in Valparaiso, Indiana on September 12, 2026. The event offers two distance options: a 5-mile run and a 5K run/walk, giving participants flexibility in choosing their racing distance. The race starts at 7:20 AM, allowing time for an early morning warm-up routine. Entry fees range from $35 to $45 depending on registration timing or entry category. Whether you're targeting the longer 5-mile distance or prefer the 5K format, this event provides a straightforward racing opportunity in the Valparaiso area. Plan to arrive early at the downtown Lafayette Street location to allow sufficient time for parking, bib pickup, and pre-race preparation.
From the Race Organizer
The Valpo Tradition Continues! Join us for the 48th running of the Popcorn Panic. A community tradition for over four decades, this event has over 1,200 participants annually, running and walking through our tree-lined city streets. In teams or as individuals, you can choose to run the 5 miles or the 5K run or walk. Team Competition Participants are encouraged to form teams! Teams must have at least 4 finishers to be eligible for team award. Winner is determined by computer analysis of the overall place of the top 4 team members. Team members are also eligible for individual awards. Registration Register by 8/14 to guarantee a shirt size. No shirt option saves $5. Register early and save! Fee increases to $40 after 8/17. Same day registration $45. Packet Pick-Up Pre-race packet pick-up will be available Wed, Sep 9 - Thu Sep 10 at the Extra Mile Fitness Company, 3400 Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, IN Pre-race packet pick-up will be available Fri, Sep 11th at Butterfield Pavilion from 3:30pm - 5:30pm Onsite packet pick-up will be available on race morning beginning at 6:30am. Due to the size of this event we strongly encourage you to register ahead of race day and pick your packet up early. Awards* Back for 2026 - Valpo Parks is continuing the recognition for the top runners. The male and female winners of the 5-mile race will be crowned champions, each receiving a suite of prestigious prizes: Champion crown The honor of riding in the Popcorn Fest Parade Two complimentary drink tickets for the Popcorn Festival A $250 gift card to Extra Mile Fitness Company Overall & Age Group Awards – Top Overall Male & Top Overall Female, Top Masters Male & Top Masters Female, Top 3 Male and Female in the following age groups: 10 & under, 11-12, 13-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80+ *Please note, Popcorn Panic has a non-duplication of awards policy. A participant who finishes in the top overall and masters winners in each event do not qualify to win an individual age group plaque.
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Valparaiso, IN. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Popcorn Panic 5M Run & 5K Run/Walk 2026 — Valparaiso, IN
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for September 12.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Valparaiso, 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 Popcorn Panic 5M Run & 5K Run/Walk 2026 — Valparaiso, IN?
Popcorn Panic 5M Run & 5K Run/Walk 2026 — Valparaiso, IN takes place on September 12, 2026. The race is held in Valparaiso, Indiana.
Where is Popcorn Panic 5M Run & 5K Run/Walk 2026 — Valparaiso, IN held?
Popcorn Panic 5M Run & 5K Run/Walk 2026 — Valparaiso, IN is held at 63 Lafayette Street in Valparaiso, Indiana.
Where can I find hotels near Popcorn Panic 5M Run & 5K Run/Walk 2026 — Valparaiso, IN?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Valparaiso. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
