Running of the Lights
About this race
Start your New Year with a healthy tradition at Running of the Lights! This unique January race begins at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Day and takes participants on a magical run or walk through the dazzling Tanglewood Festival of Lights in Clemmons, North Carolina. Choose between the 5K(ish) Run/Walk or the 1.75 Mile Fun Run/Walk and experience a one-of-a-kind course that transforms the park’s Christmas wonderland into your personal race route.
Before the race, you’ll join hundreds of fellow participants for a celebratory toast and a live stream of the New York City Times Square Ball Drop right at the start line. At the finish, warm up with hot chocolate, snacks, and post-race cheer—a perfect way to celebrate the arrival of 2026.
Why People Run the Running of the Lights
- Kick off the New Year in a fun, healthy way with friends and family
- Run or walk through the lights at Tanglewood Park, normally only open to cars
- Experience a Christmas wonderland of glowing displays on foot
- Earn a custom finisher medal
- Receive a high-quality long-sleeve race shirt
- Enjoy a festive New Year’s party atmosphere at the start and finish
- Watch the Times Square Ball Drop live feed before you run
- Celebrate after with hot chocolate, snacks, and post-race camaraderie
- Access free race photos and live results
- Compete for unique awards in the 5K
Event Details
- Date: Midnight, January 1, 2027 (race begins at the stroke of midnight)
- Location: Tanglewood Park, Clemmons, NC
- Distances: 5K Run/Walk or 1.75 Mile Fun Run/Walk
- Registration Options: Regular Registration (shirt + medal + full perks), Economy Registration, and Virtual Registration
Start Your Year Bright
If you’re looking for more than just a race, Running of the Lights is an experience. Families, friends, and runners of all levels gather to close out the old year and welcome the new with fitness, fun, and light-filled memories. Whether you’re chasing a PR or enjoying a casual stroll, this event is the perfect way to say goodbye to 2026 and hello to 2027.
Join fellow runners on January 1, 2023 for the Running of the Lights. It's a fantastic 5.2K, 2.8K, 5K featuring a flat and fast course in Clemmons.
Pick your distance
Running
3.25 Mile
This is the in-person option that allows you see the most lights.
1.75 Mile Fun Run/Walk
This event is an easy going run or walk and still allows participants to see some fun light displays.
Virtual 5K
About Clemmons
Running of the Lights takes place in Clemmons, North Carolina, United States. The local timezone is America/New_York.
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Race information has been sourced from the event's official website and other publicly available resources. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official website directly. If you notice any incorrect or missing information, don't hesitate to reach out to us by email.
