Carlton Daze 5K Run/Walk – Friday, July 24, 2026
FAMILY FRIENDLY – CHIP TIMED – ALL AGES AND ABILITIES WELCOME!
Event Overview
- Annual Event: The Carlton Daze 5K Run/Walk is a family-friendly, chip-timed event that welcomes participants of all ages and abilities.
- Celebration Kickoff: This race kicks off the weekend-long small-town celebration.
- Scenic Route: The race takes you through the heart of Carlton and a scenic stretch of Jay Cooke State Park via the Willard Munger State Trail.
- New Attraction: NEW THIS YEAR — Carlton’s first-ever drone show at 10 PM!
Post-Race Festivities
The fun doesn’t end at the finish line! Following the race and kickoff festivities, Carlton Daze will light up the night sky with its first-ever choreographed drone show — a brand-new addition to the celebration that you won’t want to miss.
- Cold Drinks: Grab a cold drink.
- Food & Music: Enjoy great food and live music.
- Explore: Explore downtown Carlton and take in the festivities.
- Relax: Grab a blanket or lawn chair and settle in for the show!
Supporting a Great Cause
This year, we’re proud to support Carlton County Animal Rescue and the incredible work they do caring for animals in our community.
- Donations: During registration, participants will have the option to make a donation directly to CCAR.
- Opt-Out Savings: If you choose to opt out of receiving a race t-shirt and save $10 on your registration, we encourage you to consider donating those savings.
- Animal Support: Help local animals in need!
5K Course Details
- Distance: 5K (3.1 miles), includes 2 water stops.
- Line Up: Runners line up at the front: walkers line up behind.
- Walkers Only: Walkers are to walk only – no running.
- Strollers: Strollers are welcome: however, dogs are not permitted on the race course.
Awards
Awards ceremony immediately following the race.
- Top Medals: Medals awarded to the overall top 3 men and women in both walking and running divisions, 14 years of age and older.
- Younger Winners: Medals awarded to the overall top 3 boys and girls in the running division ages, 13 years and younger.
- Age Groups: Top 3 men and women in each age group will also be posted at the race and online.
Gift Card Giveaway
Following the awards ceremony, we’ll host a gift card giveaway featuring prizes from generous local businesses. All racers are entered, and last year we gave away over $1,000 in gift cards!
Be sure to stick around — you just might win!
Pricing Information
- Ages 18+: $35 through July 10th, then increases to $40.
- Ages 9–17: $25.
- Ages 5–8: Free (T-shirt not included, but youth shirts are available for purchase).
- Ages 0–4: No registration needed unless you would like to purchase a T-shirt.
Register by July 10th to guarantee your t-shirt size!
After July 10th, only shirts will be available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last on race day. If we run out of your size, you can choose a different size or pick up your preferred size at a later date at Big Frog Custom T-Shirts in Hermantown.
Referral Reward
BACK THIS YEAR – $20 REFERRAL REWARD! Refer 5 friends using your personal referral link (provided after registering) and receive $20 off your registration!
Event Day Schedule
- Kids Fun Races: Registration/Check-in: 4:00–5:15 PM, Races Start: 5:30 PM.
- 5K Run/Walk: Registration/Check-in: 4:00–6:00 PM, Race Starts: 6:30 PM (Must check in at least 30 minutes prior to race time).
Post-Race Refreshments
- Beverages: Bottled water.
- Fruits: Fresh fruit (apples & bananas).
Proceeds & Important Notes
Proceeds from this event will benefit the Carlton Area Chamber of Commerce and its community and member initiatives. Thank you for your support!
PLEASE NOTE: This is a fundraiser – all registration fees are non-refundable.
Additional Information
Access the FULL Carlton Daze Schedule Here!