2027 15th Annual Black Squirrel 5K Walk/Run/Roll & 1-Mile Walk/Run/Roll

The Black Squirrel 5K Walk/Run/Roll & 1-Mile Walk/Run/Roll is an annual spring race held on the Kent State University campus in Kent, Ohio. It is named for the university’s unofficial mascot, and the format welcomes runners, walkers, and participants using wheels, rather than being exclusively for competitive runners. The traditional 5K loop begins and ends near the entrance to the Beverly J. Warren Student Recreation and Wellness Center. The route crosses campus via the Esplanade, including a few small hills. Participants should watch for black squirrels along the course, and the event encourages sharing race-day photos or videos using the event hashtag. Early registrants receive a performance race shirt; later entrants may purchase one if available.