Popcorn Panic 5M Run
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Popcorn Panic 5M Run & 5K Run/Walk
Popcorn Panic is set for 09/12/2026 in Valparaiso, IN, at 63 Lafayette Street. The event marks the 48th running and is described as a community tradition that typically draws over 1,200 participants annually. Participants may enter individually or in teams.
Distances offered:
- 5 Miles
- 5K Run/Walk
Team competition requires at least four finishers to be eligible for a team award; team placement is determined by the combined overall places of the top four finishers. Team members remain eligible for individual awards. The event has an awards structure that includes champions for the 5-mile race with specific prizes, plus overall and age-group awards. Champion prizes include a crown, participation in the Popcorn Fest Parade, two complimentary drink tickets for the Popcorn Festival, and a $250 gift card to Extra Mile Fitness Company. Overall and age-group awards are given for top overall male and female, top masters male and female, and top three male and female in multiple age brackets from 10 & under through 80+; a non-duplication policy applies to awards.
Registration fees start at $35.00 with a price increase after 8/17 and a same-day fee of $45. Registering by 8/17 guarantees a shirt size; a no-shirt option reduces the fee by $5. Pets, skateboards, in-line skates, and bicycles are prohibited. Wheelchair participants are welcome. Baby strollers are permitted but must start at the rear of the participants.
Packet pick-up is available on-site race morning beginning at 6:30am, with pre-race packet pick-up Wed Sep 9 - Thu Sep 10 at Extra Mile Fitness Company (3400 Calumet Ave.) and Fri Sep 11 at Butterfield Pavilion from 3:30pm to 5:30pm. Organizers note the event size when describing packet pick-up options. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
