Howl-O-Ween Dash - Florence
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
Event Overview
The Howl-O-Ween Dash is a community running event held at McFarland Park in Florence, Alabama. Located along the riverbank, the event benefits the Florence-Lauderdale and Colbert County Animal Shelters. Participants can choose from several distances, and while the event is pet-focused, a pet is not required to participate.
The event features a 5K course that is USATF certified (#AL16027JD). The route is described as fast and flat with no significant hills. In addition to the main race, there is a 1 Mile Fun Run. For those looking for a longer distance, a combined option of 4.1 miles is available.
Available distances:
- 5K
- 1 Mile
- 4.1 Miles (combined 5K and 1 Mile)
Features and Amenities
The event is professionally RFID chip timed. Participants who register by the October 18 deadline are guaranteed a race shirt. On-site facilities include an aid and recovery station at the start/finish line providing hydration, snacks, and electrolytes, as well as a second water station at the course turnaround. Specialized recovery services such as manual stretching, cupping, and dry needling are also available on-site.
Activities and Awards
The morning includes several community activities, such as a pet costume contest with prizes for the top three pets and a pumpkin painting station for children. Coffee is available for purchase at the venue. Awards are presented to the following categories:
- Top overall runners and top overall pet with owner.
- First place in age divisions: 12 and under, 13-35, 36-60, and 60+.
- Top three pets in the costume contest.
The course is open to runners, walkers, strollers, and leashed pets. Free parking is available on-site at McFarland Park. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.