When
Friday, September 18th, 2026
Where
1354 N 2nd Street, Rockford IL
Distance
5K
About this race
Race Overview
Come glow with us! Flat and scenic course along the Rock River Recreation Path and Nicholas Conservatory/Sinnissippi Gardens. Wear anything that glows! Black lights and other fun glow surprises throughout the course.
Registration Details
- 5k Registration Includes: T-shirt, admission ticket to Nicholas Conservatory, and finisher medal.
- Early Bird Registration: $35, Now through August 16
- Regular Rate (Online): $40, August 17 through September 17 (10 am)
- Day-of Registration: $40, September 18, starts at 6 pm (Cash or card)
Packet Pick-Up
- Date: THURSDAY, September 17
- Time: 11:30 am - 5:30 pm
- Location: Nicholas Conservatory, 1354 N 2nd Street, Rockford, IL
- Additional Pick-Up: Available Friday 6-7:15 pm at the race start
Course Information
- Starting Point: Just south of Nicholas Conservatory
- Route: Runs north along the Rock River Recreation Path, into Loves Park, and back
- Glow Features: Lots of glowing fun along the way!
- Visibility: Bring a flashlight or headlamp for safety
Event Timing
- Start Time: 5k starts at 7:30 pm
- Location: Just south of Nicholas Conservatory - Look for the glowing arch!
- Chip-Timed: The race will be chip-timed
- Kids Fun Run: Starts at 7 pm, no registration needed
Additional Features
- Trolley Shuttle: Free shuttle along the Riverfront from YMCA to Symbol, donations appreciated
- Awards Ceremony: 8:30 pm at the glowing arch start/finish
- Food Trucks: Stay tuned for available food trucks
- Show Us Your Glow: Paint your face, glam your shirts, and have fun!
Nicholas Conservatory Information
The inside gardens, Nicholas Conservatory, will be closed during Glow in the Garden, but come back before October 18 to check out this summer and fall's exhibit, Botanical Curiosities: Carnivorous Plants & Other Herbaceous Oddities (www.nicholasconservatory.com).
Post-Race Activities
- Wishing Lanterns: $5 per lantern, available after the race on the Eclipse Lagoon
- Family Games: Activities in the outdoor gardens
- Race Registration Perk: Wishing lantern included in race packet if purchased
- Accessibility: Walkers and runners of all abilities are welcome, but strollers and dogs are not allowed
Event Location
1354 N 2nd Street, Rockford, IL
Race URL
Course map
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