Rutgers Big Chill 5K

The Rutgers Big Chill 5K Run/Walk is a charitable event that has served the Rutgers University-New Brunswick, NJ community since 2003, helping to provide thousands of toys each year to local children. Similarly to last year, participants may choose between an in-person or virtual race. The in-person race will take place on Saturday, December 12th at 10:00am on the College Ave Campus with participant check-in available on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning.

For more than 20 years, the Rutgers Big chill has been a cherished tradition that brings together students, alumni, faculty, staff, and community members in support of a meaningful cause. We are proud to continue this tradition of giving back.

December 12, 2026 | College Avenue Gym | 10am start | Rain or Shine
$30 In-Person race fee at registration + a toy for children valued at $10 or more.

Toys should be brought to Runner Check-In on Friday afternoon or Saturday morning. Unfortunately, we are unable to accept cash donations in lieu of a toy donation. We kindly ask that participants bring a new, unwrapped toy to support the event's charitable mission.

Participants will receive the traditional long-sleeved Big Chill t-shirt during runner check-in. 

We limit the in-person event to 3,250 runners and will close registration once we reach 3,250 runners.

Runner Check-in will occur on Friday, December 11, from 2–5 pm and Saturday, December 12, from 8-9:45 am at the College Ave Gym, 130 College Ave, New Brunswick, NJ. 

BIG CHILL PERK: All runners will receive 2 FREE tickets to Rutgers Football vs Nebraska on Saturday, November 14th.  To receive your two free tickets, each attendee must register separately.  Upon completion of your registration, you will automatically be linked to the Rutgers ticket site to obtain your free tickets.  The link for tickets can also be found in your confirmation email. Additional tickets may be purchased at a discounted rate of $25. Be sure to complete your registration by November 11, 2026.

Virtual Race

Location of your choice | Complete Virtual Race from December 7 - December 14, 2026.

The $10 virtual race fee includes a printable bib online. If you are interested in purchasing a Big Chill shirt or other Big Chill merchandise, items are available through our online store.

Virtual participants can run or walk a 5K at a location of their choice and submit their 5K times anytime from Monday, December 7– Monday, December 14.

RACE FEE & DONATIONS
In 2025, through the generosity of our participants and donors, over $10,000 raised from The Rutgers Big Chill was contributed to the No Hungry Knights Fund to fight food insecurity on campus. Additionally, the toys collected were distributed to children and families in the local New Brunswick community. The race fee supports the operational costs of hosting The Big Chill, ensuring we can continue making a meaningful impact year after year.

BIG CHILL STORE

Get ready for race day! The official Big Chill 5K Store is now live — shop your favorite Big Chill gear today.

• Virtual runners can purchase their race shirts directly through the site.
• All runners can grab extra shirts, cozy sweatshirts, and hats to show off their Big Chill spirit all season long.

Visit the store now and gear up for one of Rutgers’ favorite traditions:
https://shoprhouse.com/collections/store-big-chill