Running of the Lights
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Event overview
Running of the Lights is a New Year event on January 1, 2026, held at Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, North Carolina. The event takes participants on a run or walk through the Tanglewood Festival of Lights and offers in-person and virtual options. Distances offered include:
- 5K Run/Walk
- 1.75 Mile Fun Run/Walk
- Virtual Fun Run or 5K
The race includes a finishers medal and a custom long-sleeve race shirt. Event-day features listed include a celebratory toast, a live stream of the Times Square Ball Drop at the start line, race photos, post-race hot chocolate and snacks, and awards for the 5K.
Logistics and registration
Registration options are Regular (shirt + medal + full perks), Economy, and Virtual. Some listed prices for in-person options include $45 for the 5K and $32 for the standard 1.75 mile entry, with economy prices lower and a virtual entry fee noted. Registration deadlines differ by option. The event website states refund and transfer rules: no refunds within 30 days of the event; earlier requests may be eligible for a 50% refund (processing fees excluded); entries cannot be deferred to another event or year. Entries may be transferred to another individual for a $5 fee, but T-shirt size cannot be changed. If the race is canceled for reasons beyond the race committee's control, refunds will not be made and race packets will be made available at a later location. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
