Harvest Moon Run 2026

The Harvest Moon Run is a flat, paved 5K run and walk at Route 66 State Park, beginning after dark at 7:00 PM CDT. This annual community race features a practical nighttime setup: 5K participants receive a long-sleeve shirt and an Energizer headlight. The event is operated by a volunteer 501(c)(3) charity. The course is simple and accessible, suitable for walkers, first-time 5K runners, families, and competitive age-group runners. Proceeds benefit local hunger missions, and the race encourages participants to bring canned or boxed food for its “Fill the Ford with Food” drive. Children have their own free Fun Run before the 5K, with awards for the Mini Moonie Dash, Moonie 1/2 Mile, and Moonie Mile. The 5K awards medals to overall and age-group winners, from youth runners through the 70-plus field. Fred Bird attends before the start, contributing to the evening's local festival atmosphere.