First Day 5k Midnight Run

You're invited to celebrate the New Year at the 1st Annual First Day 5k Midnight Run!

Bring your friends and family to DeGray Lake Resort State Park to count down to the start of 2027. Once the ball drops, the race begins! Complimentary hot chocolate will be available for participants to enjoy near designated campfire areas before and after the race. Once you cross the finish line, be sure to make 2027 the luckiest year yet by grabbing a cup of black-eyed peas and cornbread to refuel and warm your spirit. Make the most of the New Year by booking a stay at beautiful DeGray Lodge, (501) 865-5851, conveniently located mere minutes away from the race start point at the state park’s golf course.

Route description: The race route consists of a narrow, mostly flat concrete path on the DeGray Lake Resort State Park Golf Course's front 9. Headlamps and/or flashlights are recommended for this race.

Note: This is a timed event. Finisher medals will be given to all participants, and top three medals will be rewarded to the designated age groups below:

• Male and Female: Under 12, 12-17, 18-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69 ,70 and up
• Overall 1 st – 3 rd place M/F

Race Day Schedule (approximate)

10:30-11 p.m. Last-minute registration in front of golf course pro shop

11 – 11:30 p.m. Guest Check-in and Bib pickup

11:45 p.m. Race Staging near start line/ National Anthem before race start

12 a.m. race start

~12:45 a.m. Awards and post-race meal