Illinois State University Homecoming Town and Gown 5K 2026

The Illinois State University Homecoming Town and Gown 5K begins at the Student Fitness Center in Normal, Illinois, during Homecoming week. This campus-and-community race offers a 5K, an untimed 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk, and virtual 5K options. The in-person races start in the morning. Participants should wear Redbird gear. Strollers are permitted, but pets are not. Registration must be completed online before arrival. The 5K course winds through Uptown Normal and around the Illinois State campus. A water stop is provided on the course, with refreshments available afterward for all participants. The Office of Sustainability contributes reusable water bottles and a Zero Waste Crew, aiming to reduce event waste. Awards are presented to the overall male, female, non-binary, and wheelchair winners, along with the top three male and female finishers in age categories from 14 and under to 60 and over. A portion of each paid registration benefits the Marian H. Dean Scholarship, providing the Homecoming run with a direct campus fundraising objective.