Bright Lights 5K
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About the race
Bright Lights 5K & Fun Run is scheduled for November 25, 2026, at the Daniel Stowe Conservancy in Belmont, North Carolina, the night before Thanksgiving. The event is a run through the Gardens at Stowe holiday lights display and offers two distances:
- 5K
- 1-ish Mile Fun Run
Race registration includes a race bib and either a custom ornament for the 1-mile entry or a finisher medal for the 5K. Entrants also receive a chance at a custom top-three race medal and free entry to the Holidays at the Garden lights display for a sneak peek after party before the public opening. Children aged two and under are admitted free; others who wish to attend the sneak peek must be registered for the 5K or 1-mile event.
The course is multi-surface and uses paved roads, natural trails, and garden pathways. The route is not described as stroller friendly, though it can be completed with a running or hiking stroller.
Packet pickup is available on November 24 and November 25. Registration fees follow tiered pricing periods and are subject to mandatory charges and fees. There are no refunds unless a participant purchased the Refund Protection Program. Race management may cancel or modify the event for unfavorable conditions, and registration fees are nonrefundable in the event of cancellation due to Acts of God.
Fundraising for the conservancy is part of the event; at the time of listing $274.13 has been raised toward a $1,000 goal. The event lists OrthoCarolina as a sponsor and shows 251 participants registered. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
