Glow in the Garden 5k 2026

The Glow in the Garden 5k is a Friday evening race in Rockford, Illinois. It begins at 7:30 pm near Nicholas Conservatory and Gardens. This is a flat, chip-timed 5k run on the Rock River Recreation Path. Runners and walkers are encouraged to wear glowing clothes, face paint, lights, or other items that are visible under black light. Registration covers a race T-shirt, a finisher medal, and admission to Nicholas Conservatory. The course starts south of the conservatory, heading north on the river path into Loves Park before looping back to the garden area. It passes Nicholas Conservatory and Sinnissippi Gardens. Organizers incorporate laser lights, black lights, uplights, a glowing arch, and other light effects along the route. A free 100-meter kids run precedes the 5k; no registration is required. The evening concludes with awards, food trucks, garden activities, and optional Wishing Lanterns.