Polar Pals 5K
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Event details
The Polar Pals run takes place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, in Stafford, VA at 550 Courthouse Road. It is a free event and is part of the Stafford Schools Annual Community Health and Wellness Fair. The event includes the following distances:
- 5K
- 1 Mile (open to ages 2 - 12)
- 1/2 Mile (open to ages 12 and under)
The 5K is open to both children and adults.
Course, awards and purpose
All races begin and end at the front of the school. The 1/2 mile course is one lap around the school and the 1 mile course is two laps; the 5K course runs through the Colonial Forge neighborhood and behind the high school athletic fields. Maps are available upon request.
The event aims to encourage outdoor activity during the colder months and is followed by hot chocolate plus indoor activities and resources offered by school division departments and community partners. All 1/2 mile and 1 mile participants receive a swag bag. The school with the most overall runners receives a photo shoot and a giant Polar Pal stuffed bear for display for the year. The 5K awards fastest overall male and female plus winners in age groups: under 10, 11-18, 19-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60 and over. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
