Glow in the Garden 5k 2026

The race.

Glow in the Garden 5K takes place September 18, 2026, in Rockford, Illinois, starting at 7:30 p.m. just south of Nicholas Conservatory. The 5K follows the Rock River Recreation Path north into Loves Park before returning to the start/finish location; a separate Kids 200 Meter Fun Run begins at 7 p.m. that morning. Five-kilometer registration includes a T-shirt, finisher medal, and admission to Nicholas Conservatory, with early-bird pricing of $35 through August 16, regular online registration at $40 through September 17, and day-of registration available at $40 or $45. Packet pickup occurs Thursday, September 17, from 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., or Friday evening at the race start. Awards are presented at 8:30 p.m. Food trucks and post-race activities including wishing lanterns and family games are available.