Light the Way 5K Run/Walk
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Light the Way 5K
The Light the Way 5K is an annual nighttime 5K held at Dollywood in Sevierville, Tennessee. The course runs through Dollywood and concludes among the park’s Christmas light displays. The 2026 edition is listed for November 13, 2026.
The course was re-certified in 2024 and uses a start area near the park toll booths. More than half of the route is off-park, using Dollywood’s tram road before returning through the park lights. Participants are expected to be able to complete the 5K within 90 minutes without stopping; those who cannot are advised to use the separate 1-mile Fun Walk.
The event is facilitated by the Knoxville Track Club, which provides chip timing. Online registration is limited to 2,000 participants. Registration fees listed are $50 through June 1 and $55 from June 2 through November 13. Packet pickup takes place on the days before the race at local REI stores and on race day at Dollywood Splash Country.
Medals are awarded to every participant at the finish, and awards are presented to the top three overall finishers for both men and women and across all age groups. Strollers are not allowed. The event operates rain or shine; in cases of severe weather the management team may delay, modify, or cancel the race and no refunds are issued for weather-related cancellations. Proceeds benefit Keep Sevier Beautiful and the Share It Forward program at Dollywood. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
