The Milk Run 5K
Always double-check with the organizer's website! This page may contain affiliate links.
The Milk Run
The Milk Run is a community fun run held in Ely on June 6, 2026. It is the third annual edition and supports the Give-a-Gallon program, which provides farm fresh milk to local food pantries. Last year the event helped donate over 420 half gallons of milk to HACAP for distribution to partnering agencies in the Cedar Rapids and Iowa City area.
The event offers two distances:
- 5K
- 1 Mile (the 1 mile race begins after the 5K is underway)
Both distances will use chip timing. There are no awards; every registered participant is offered a free pint of Dan and Debbie’s chocolate milk after the race. Strollers are welcome. Dogs, bicycles, and motorized vehicles are not allowed on the course. The run takes place on public trail sections and participants are asked to obey the rules of the road and be aware of other trail users.
Packet pickup is available before race day at Dan and Debbie’s Creamery and on race day outside the creamery. Runners should bring a photo ID for packet pickup; race bibs are included in the packet and a fee applies if a bib is forgotten. Pre-registered participants are eligible to receive a Milk Run t-shirt. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.