Are you looking for a 5K to run that is totally unique? There’s no better way to ring in the holidays than running by more than five million twinkling Christmas lights at Dollywood Resort in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The course is different this year, with Dollywood officials saying it has been improved for runners. The race was unavailable last year due to the pandemic, but is returning in 2021 with a maximum number of participants capped at 1,500.
Proceeds from the run will go to the charities Keep Sevier Beautiful (KSB) and the Share It Forward (SIF) program at Dollywood.
Those not up for a 5K may be interested in the walking loop being offered. Fifty-dollar pre-registration is available at www.lighttheway5k.net. However, if there are any open spots remaining, desiring registrants can sign up for the race or the walk at Splash Country water park on the day of the run. Same-day registration starts at 11:00 am.
The race itself starts at 11:00 PM, so bring warm clothing depending on weather forecasts at the time. If you’re really lucky, maybe Pigeon Forge will have some snow flurries as you run by the beautiful Christmas lights inside the park. Dollywood has previously won multiple awards for the best holiday theme park displays in the country.
