Kokomo Family YMCA to Host New Halloween Hustle 5K Fun Run

Photo Provided | Kokomo Family YMCA

The Kokomo Family YMCA is brewing up a brand-new Halloween-themed fun run on Saturday, Oct. 26, complete with a costume contest and prizes for all ages.

After the success of the YMCA’s Glo in the ’Mo 5K in the past, Mark Sutton, sports and recreation director with the Kokomo Family YMCA, said he is excited to try something new this year. The day will include the Halloween Hustle 5K fun run and the Monster Mini Run.

The Halloween Hustle will be a 3.1-mile untimed fun run for all ages, taking participants through downtown Kokomo and Foster Park along the Wildcat Creek Walk of Excellence Trail.

“This is mainly for the kids,” Sutton said. “We love the idea of seeing kids and families walking and running around downtown in their costumes. Seeing lions or dancers in tutus would be fun.”

The Monster Mini Run is a shorter run for children ages 10 and under. Participants are encouraged to wear Halloween costumes for both events.

Participants should arrive early to pick up their packets. While supplies last, Halloween Hustle registrants will receive a finisher medal, water bottle, candy, and toys. The fun doesn’t end there, as a candy crawl with music, vendors, food trucks, and a costume contest will follow the 5K and Monster Mini Run. The costume contest will have five divisions, with prizes for the winners.

Photo Provided | Kokomo Family YMCA

“I’m excited for the costume contest myself,” Sutton said. “I think the little dog costumes are pretty cool.”

The YMCA staff is enthusiastic about hosting the race and providing a fun, family-friendly event in Kokomo, said Sutton.

“I feel like this race could become a staple for our special events in the future,” Sutton said. “People are always asking, ‘What is there to do in Kokomo?’ Well, we have your answer: the Halloween Hustle!”

Sutton hopes that participants will take the opportunity to be active and enjoy the event with their families and neighbors.

Online registration for the Halloween Hustle 5K is available until 9 a.m. on race day. Proceeds from the event will support the Kokomo Family YMCA’s annual campaign, which provides scholarships for local families to access the YMCA's facilities. For more information, contact Mark Sutton at mark.sutton@kokomoymca.org.