Superior Nightmare 5K
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Superior Nightmare 5K
The Superior Nightmare 5K is a Halloween-themed community road race held each October in Superior, Wisconsin. The event is presented in coordination with the city’s Superior Spooktacular and combines a costumed road race with family-oriented activities and seasonal decorations.
A race day costume contest accepts photos taken near the start-finish area outside Wessman Arena; winners are selected by public vote the following week and prizes are awarded in categories such as individual, group, and kids. A post-race party is hosted in Superior and participants receive a free drink ticket for use at that event.
Children’s programming includes the Spider Dash kids’ races, free and open to ages 14 and under, which take place on the track outside Wessman Arena and run continuously so kids may join multiple heats. For 2026 the Young Athletes Foundation is offering free entries for youth 18 and under to its series of races.
Packet pickup is available on the Friday and Saturday of race weekend at Grandma’s Marathon Office and at Wessman Arena. Online registration is limited by a capacity of 750 participants and is handled on a first-come, first-served basis; listed entry fees include processing surcharges. Adult entrants receive a commemorative full-zip jacket and youth entrants receive a hooded sweatshirt; commemorative socks are available for purchase.
Local free parking is provided at Wessman Arena, Superior High School, and Northern Lights Elementary School. Road closures affect parts of Catlin Avenue, Hammond Avenue, North 21st Street, and streets bordering Hammond Park. Race rules prohibit pets, motor vehicles, bicycles, handcycles, hand-cranked wheelchairs, roller skis, inline skates, and unregistered participants; baby joggers and strollers are allowed but must start in the back of the corral. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
