For the past 16 years, runners, walkers, families and student running groups have filled Washington Park and the surrounding streets on the second Sunday in November. They come from all over the Front Range – some dressed in crazy costumes, others pushing strollers and still others in large groups of family and friends – to participate in The Great Candy Run. This year’s Great Candy Run, proudly supported by Denver7, will take place on Sunday, Nov. 8. It will be a bit smaller than past years, but will still offer big opportunities to make sweet memories.
The organizers of The Great Candy Run, which benefits the nonprofit Fetal Health Foundation, have worked closely with the City and County of Denver Office of Special Events and department of health officials to ensure a safe experience for all. Participants will be limited to 700, with race chutes and start times spaced out to maintain physical distancing throughout the 5K course. The first starting group will take off at 8 a.m. and the final group will cross the start line at 11 a.m. The run/walk will be timed, and official awards will be announced via an online streamed ceremony the following week.
Lolli, The Great Candy Run mascot, will cheer participants on at the start and finish line and music will play throughout the morning. A small expo with distanced booths – including glitter tattoos for the kids of all ages – will be set up before and after the Run. As participants cross the finish line, they’ll receive the cherished Great Candy Run medal as well as a swag bag full of sweet treats. As in past years, runners and walkers are encouraged to dress in costume and the winners of the costume contest will be announced via Facebook following the event.
Those wishing to make their own sweet memories from home instead of in-person while supporting the Fetal Health Foundation, which provides support and resources to families experiencing pregnancy complications, can register for the Virtual Great Candy Run. A virtual opening will take place on YouTube streaming on Nov. 8, with an awards ceremony the following week, and all registrants will receive the sweet shirt, finisher medal and sweet treats. For in-person and virtual experiences, participants will get a fun audio experience via the Motigo app (which includes a message from Denver7 Morning Anchor Jessica Porter), and a Kudos board on www.thegreatcandyrun.com where videos and photos can be posted.
Online registration is now open for The Great Candy Run at www.thegreatcandyrun.com.
About The Great Candy Run
The Great Candy Run benefits the Littleton-based Fetal Health Foundation and also serves to boost awareness of fetal condition diagnoses and provide a community of hope for families experiencing these medical challenges. Now in its 17th year, The Great Candy Run is a family-friendly event and has twice been named the "Best Kids Run” by Competitor magazine and voted “Best 5K” by Colorado Runner Magazine. More information is available at www.thegreatcandyrun.com.
About The Fetal Health Foundation
The Fetal Health Foundation is a national nonprofit focused on empowering and supporting expectant parents by providing information, access to world class maternal fetal medical experts, financial support, connections and counseling. In addition, FHF funds research, increases awareness, and serves as an outlet for leading medical information pertaining to fetal conditions and syndromes. To learn more visit www.fetalhealthfoundation.org.