Popcorn Panic 5M Run & 5K Run/Walk

The Valpo Tradition Continues! 

Join us for the 48th running of the Popcorn Panic. A community tradition for over four decades, this event has over 1,200 participants annually, running and walking through our tree-lined city streets. In teams or as individuals, you can choose to run the 5 miles or the 5K run or walk.

Team Competition

Participants are encouraged to form teams! Teams must have at least 4 finishers to be eligible for team award. Winner is determined by computer analysis of the overall place of the top 4 team members. Team members are also eligible for individual awards. 

Registration

Register by 8/14 to guarantee a shirt size.  No shirt option saves $5.
Register early and save! Fee increases to $40 after 8/17. Same day registration $45.

Packet Pick-Up

• Pre-race packet pick-up will be available Wed, Sep 9 - Thu Sep 10 at the Extra Mile Fitness Company, 3400 Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, IN
• Pre-race packet pick-up will be available Fri, Sep 11th at Butterfield Pavilion from 3:30pm - 5:30pm
• Onsite packet pick-up will be available on race morning beginning at 6:30am.  Due to the size of this event we strongly encourage you to register ahead of race day and pick your packet up early. 

Awards*

Back for 2026 - Valpo Parks is continuing the recognition for the top runners. The male and female winners of the 5-mile race will be crowned champions, each receiving a suite of prestigious prizes:

• Champion crown
• The honor of riding in the Popcorn Fest Parade
• Two complimentary drink tickets for the Popcorn Festival
• A $250 gift card to Extra Mile Fitness Company

Overall & Age Group Awards – Top Overall Male & Top Overall Female, Top Masters Male & Top Masters Female, Top 3 Male and Female in the following age groups: 10 & under, 11-12, 13-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80+

*Please note, Popcorn Panic has a non-duplication of awards policy.  A participant who finishes in the top overall and masters winners in each event do not qualify to win an individual age group plaque.

Join fellow runners on September 12, 2026 for the Popcorn Panic 5M Run & 5K Run/Walk. It's a fantastic 8K, 5K featuring a flat and fast course in Valparaiso.