Holiday Lights Hunger Run/Walk

Take steps against hunger on the Saturday before Thanksgiving through Making Spirits Bright's iconic holiday lights show in Evergreen Park before it's open to the public for the season. All proceeds from this event support Sheboygan County Food Bank. In the first eight years of this event, over $630,000 has been raised thanks to the generous support of our community. This has helped us provide nutritious food to thousands of our neighbors over the years! 

Highlights:

• Exclusive, on-foot “sneak peek” of Making Spirits Bright 
• Opportunity to receive a goodie bag full of giveaways from sponsors and community partners (first 500 people who register)
• Complimentary hot chocolate and cookies
• Photo opportunity with Santa
• Onsite food trucks
• Professional race timing on accurately measured course (5K runners only)
• Free event photos courtesy of local volunteer photographers
• Award ceremony and after party at 3 Sheeps Brewing's taproom

 

Children 12 and Under Register to Walk for Free

Keeping this a family-friendly event, ages 12 and under register for FREE for any of the walk waves.

 

Inclusiveness Through Community Partnerships

Sheboygan County Food Bank is partnering with myTEAMTRIUMPH and Big Brothers Big Sisters WI Shoreline to offer free registrations for any athletes, angels, Littles and Bigs. If you're a part of one of these organizations and interested in attending, please reach out to your local contact for registration details.

 

VIP Experience & Parking Passes (Limited Supply Available)

Reserve this for one vehicle for an additional $50 during the registration. Upon arrival, participants will be greeted with hot chocolate and cookies, and receive one specially curated bag of Sheboygan County Food Bank swag, treats, and other local goodies! The $50 donation goes directly to support Sheboygan County Food Bank's work to serve local families facing hunger.

 

Food Collection with Chance to Win Door Prizes

For the first time, we're partnering with Making Spirits Bright for an onsite food collection! Participants and volunteers who bring three food items to donate will be able to put in an entry to win a door prize. Learn more and see the listing of door prizes.

 

Event Maps

Course and Event Map

Parking and Shuttle Service Maps and Details

 

Volunteer With Us

We count on the helping hands of over 150+ volunteers! Volunteers help with packet pickup, gear check, shuttle bus stops, water stations, the course, clean up, and more. All volunteers are welcome to enjoy the event before or after their shift. As a token of our appreciation, volunteers will receive cheese products generously donated by our friends at Sargento and Sartori as well as one 3 Sheeps Brewing free drink ticket (valid the day of the event only) generously provided by our event partner, 3 Sheeps Brewing.

Sign up to volunteer

 

2025 Sponsorships with Matching Opportunities

Sponsorships for our 8th Annual Holiday Lights Hunger Run/Walk are available. Black Spring Foundation will generously be matching first-time sponsorships and incremental sponsorship increases from 2024 (i.e., if a sponsor gave $1,000 in 2024 and gives $2,500 in 2025, then $1,500 will be matched). Commitments are welcome after the August 29th deadline, but benefits are subject to change. Learn more and sign up to become a sponsor. Please feel welcome to email Lauren at lauren@sheboygancountyfoodbank.com with any questions.

 

Other Ways to Register

We do not offer hard copy registration forms. If you need assistance with registration and/or if you prefer to pay with cash/check, we're happy to help you complete your online registration over-the-phone or in-person. Please connect with Erin or Katie by calling 920-453-0169 or visiting in-person at Sheboygan County Food Bank (3115 N. 21 Street in Sheboygan), Monday - Thursday, 9 AM - 3 PM.

 

Sheboygan County Food Bank

Sheboygan County Food Bank distributes food through its core programs and in partnership with local food pantries and other organizations to make sure nutritious food reaches thousands of families, seniors, and children. Sponsorships, registration fees, VIP parking passes, purchased shirts and other gear, and donations for this event directly support Sheboygan County Food Bank's work to make sure food gets into the hands of our neighbors in need.

DONATE  |  VOLUNTEER 

 

Special Thanks to our Host Sponsor: Making Spirits Bright

Since 2012, Sheboygan County Rotary Clubs have been coordinating Making Spirits Bright, which is Sheboygan County Food Bank’s largest annual food drive. Admission to the park is free of charge, but donating nutritious food items is highly encouraged. Visitors have the chance to enjoy visits with Santa, wreath raffles, entertainment and concessions across the street at Santa's Station (Quarryview Center).

Making Spirits Bright is open every night, November 28 – December 31, from 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (closed on Dec. 24). Over 1.2 MILLION pounds of donations have been collected since the event started!

Making Spirits Bright generously offers their venue for the Holiday Lights Hunger Run/Walk – Sheboygan County Food Bank's second biggest fundraiser and only event each year. Learn more about the special partnership.

Race Day Events will provide professional 5K run chip timing as well as the start and finish lines. (Please note that the 1-mile walk waves will not be chip timed.) Official results can be viewed online. QR codes to the RunSignUp online results will also be posted at various points onsite at the event.

During online registration, 5K run participants will have the option to opt-in to receive text message and/or email notifications when results are posted. Additional phone numbers and/or emails can also be added.

Official results will also be posted later on the day of the event on paper at 3 Sheeps Brewing's taproom (following the 5K run award ceremony) and on Sheboygan County Food Bank's Facebook page.

5K Run Award Categories

Awards will be given to the top three finishers, male and female, in each of the following age groups: 12 and under, 13-16, 17-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+. The top overall male and female finishers will receive an award and Holiday Lights Hunger Run/Walk hip pack, and are not eligible to receive an award for their respective age category.

Award Ceremony and After Party

The award ceremony* for the 5K run begins at approximately 5:30 PM following the 5K run at 3 Sheeps Brewing. 3 Sheeps is a dog-friendly 10,000 sq. ft taproom with 25 taps featuring taproom-only beers and year-round favorites. Less than a mile from the main event location, stop by to warm up, see the top 5K run award ceremony, enjoy locally-crafted beer and grab a bite to eat! Snacks are available to purchase inside their taproom. You're also welcome to bring in whatever food you would like or have food delivered. Chester's Waterfront food truck will be parked outside serving burgers, steak sandwiches, cheese curds, french fries and more. 

Masters of the Universe, the recognized symbol of excellence in 80's cover bands and a Sheboygan favorite, kicks off at 7:00 PM on the stage inside the taproom.

*If you miss receiving your award at the ceremony, awards will not be mailed, but they will be available for pickup 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday, at Sheboygan County Food Bank (3115 N. 21 Street, Suite 1 in Sheboygan) until Friday, December 5. Please note that Sheboygan County Food Bank will be closed on Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28.

General Course Information

• Race bib or wrist band required for admission: Participants must wear their wristbands (1-mile walk) or race bibs (5K run) received at packet pickup. 
• Evergreen Park CLOSED to all vehicles: Participants access the course in Evergreen Park from the Quarryview Center parking lot using a lit path under the Calumet Drive bridge. The course follows Evergreen Park’s paved road that is transformed into a drive-through for Making Spirits Bright's holiday lights and music show.
• Music: Standing speakers are intermittently placed throughout the course for participants to enjoy the synchronized lights and music. Please note that because of the long length of the course, limited power outlets in Evergreen Park and limited availability of rental equipment that is paid for, participants will not hear music for the entire length of the course. Please consider downloading a radio app on your phone and tuning to 89.1 FM.
• 5K run spectator viewing area: A designated 5K run spectator viewing area will be located near the finish line. We kindly ask that if spectators are planning to walk the course following the run, that they please register for one of the walk waves.

Course Rules

• Participants are welcome to take photos along the course with displays in the background, but are not permitted to step off of the course pavement or touch displays.
• The drive-through loop is designed for only one lane of vehicle traffic. Therefore, we kindly ask that during the 5K run families with strollers and slower runners begin in the back and stay to the right for the duration of the run.
• The course closes for all participants at 7:00 PM and the shuttle busses for each offsite parking lot make final pickups at the Quarryview Center parking lot at 7:30 PM.

5K Run Details

• Runners need to pin their chipped race bibs on the front outside of their clothing so that they are visible. This will help make sure running times are recorded accurately. 
• Runners who need a safe place to put layers of clothing or other small personal items while out on the course are welcome use our designated gear check near the finish line (on the way to the start line). Gear check will be supervised by volunteers from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM.
• Runners must complete three clockwise laps of the paved drive-through to reach the 5K distance.
• The start line race timing mat where there will be an official countdown that begins promptly at 4:00 PM. 
• The finish line includes a race timing mat in a well-marked chute off to the right. Volunteers assist in guiding runners. Runners need to cross the finish line timing mat in order for their time to be recorded and to be eligible for awards. 
• Runners must finish by approximately 4:45 PM and are welcome to walk the course until the course closes for all participants at 7:00 PM.

1-Mile Walk Details

• Walkers complete almost one clockwise lap of the paved drive-through to view the entire holiday lights and music show at least once. 
• The 1-mile walk is divided into three waves to safely limit crowds on the course and shuttle buses. Walkers should arrive at the course no earlier than 5 minutes before their start time (5:00 PM, 5:30 PM or 6:00 PM) to help ensure a safe and fun experience for all.
• Walk waves do not have an official countdown. Volunteers will help guide the first walk wave participants at approximately 5:00 PM (or once all 5K run participants are safely off of the course). The waves of walkers with start times at 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM are welcome to enter the course upon arrival.
• All walkers are welcome to enjoy the course at their own pace until the course closes for all participants at 7:00 PM.

 

Click here to view the Course and Event Map

 

Is there a deadline for registration?

Registration for the 5K run and 1-mile walk will be available online until the start times and in-person at the large tent outside of the Quarryview Center beginning at 12:00 PM on Saturday, November 22 (day of event). We will accept credit cards, cash, or check. 

Registration Prices (September 8 - September 30):

• 5K run (all ages): $25
• 1-mile walk registration (ages 13+): $20
• Ages 12 and under register for free for any of the walk waves 

Registration Prices (October 1 - October 31):

• 5K run (all ages): $30
• 1-mile walk registration (ages 13+): $25
• Ages 12 and under register for free for any of the walk waves 

Registration Prices (November 1 - November 22):

• 5K run (all ages): $35 (available until 4:00 PM on day of event)
• 1-mile walk (ages 13+): $30 (available until 6:00 PM on day of event)
• Ages 12 and under register for free for any of the walk waves (available until 6:00 PM on day of event)

Are there shirts or other items for sale?

Bundle up and show your support! Apparel items will be for sale during the registration process through Sunday, November 2. Travel mugs are available to purchase during the registration process through Saturday, November 22. Beginning at 12:00 PM on the day of the event (November 22), a limited quantity of all apparel items and travel mugs will be available to purchase inside the large tent outside of the Quarryview Center (cash or online donation). Light up items will also be available to purchase outside of the Quarryview Center in a small tent (cash or online donation). Please note that there is now an ATM available inside the Quarryview Center and all sales directly support Sheboygan County Food Bank. 

What is packet pickup?

Packet pickup is where participants receive race bibs and pins (5K run), wristbands (1-mile walk), and any apparel or other items that were ordered during the registration process. The first 500 people who registered will also receive a special goodie bag filled with giveaways/materials from sponsors and key partners, including local cheese generously provided by our friends at Sartori and Sargento! Packets must be picked up before entering the event, and bibs and wristbands must be worn at the event.

Where and when can I pick up my packet? 

Sponsors and employers offering free/discounted registrations using a unique coupon code will have packets pre-grouped into boxes or large bags. A representative is welcome to attend any of the scheduled packet pickups below and will only need to provide the employer name instead of individual names. Individuals are welcome to pick up their packets, but they will still need to first provide their employer’s name.

All other participants are welcome to visit any of the scheduled packet pickup times below and only need to provide their first and last name. 

Option 1: Thursday, November 20, 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Sheboygan County Food Bank, Door A (3115 N 21st St., Sheboygan, WI 53083)

Option 2: Friday, November 21, 10:00 PM - 2:00 PM at Sheboygan County Food Bank, Door A (3115 N 21st St., Sheboygan, WI 53083)

Option 3: Saturday, November 22, 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM inside large tent outside of Quarryview Center (3401 Calumet Dr, Sheboygan, WI 53083)

Can I pick up other participant(s) packets?

Yes. Packets may be picked up on behalf of other participants (i.e., family members, friends, coworkers). If you will be picking up two or more packets, please print, complete and bring this Packet Pickup Form. These forms will also be available to fill out onsite at packet pickup. 

What do I need to do before arriving to the event?

Register: Participants can register for either the 5K run or 1-mile walk (waves 1, 2 or 3). Register here.

Wear race bib or wrist band for admission: Runners must wear race bibs and walkers must wear wristbands received at packet pickup. 

Dress for the occasion: We love to see your holiday-themed outfits and costumes and your Holiday Lights Hunger Run/Walk apparel! If you're running the 5K, be sure to watch the weather forecast and wear appropriate clothing. Staying warm during the winter months in Wisconsin means bundling up in layers, including, hats, mittens, and thick socks. If you're a runner and need a safe place to put layers of clothing or other small personal items while you're on the course, please feel welcome to make a stop at our designated gear check near the finish line (on the way to the start line). Gear check will be supervised by volunteers from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM.

Pre-download a radio app: Standing speakers are intermittently placed throughout the course for participants to enjoy the synchronized lights and music, but speakers are a paid service and limited. Please consider downloading a radio app on your phone and tuning to 89.1 FM.

I'm a VIP Experience & Parking Pass holder. What do I need to know before I arrive?

We can't wait to greet you and help make your experience extra special! Parking instructions will be sent to the email you registered with by Monday, November 17. See more detailed information and maps here.

I'm a Disabled Parking Pass holder. What do I need to know before I arrive?

We look forward to making sure this event is accessible for you! Parking instructions will be sent to the email you registered with by Monday, November 17. See more detailed information and maps here.

Where should I park and when should I arrive?

Please note that beginning at 3:00 PM on the day of the event there is no parking at the Quarryview Center parking lot located at 3401 Calumet Dr. in Sheboygan (closest to event) unless you are a volunteer or have reserved either a VIP Experience & Parking Pass or Disabled Parking Pass in advance during online registration. There will be free offsite parking at parking lots within one mile of the main event site. Multiple shuttle buses will run from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM and continually service the offsite parking lots to transfer participants to and from Quarryview Center parking lot. More information here.

The walk is divided into three waves this year to help decreases shuttle wait times and safely limit crowds on the course so it is important to arrive as close to your scheduled start time as possible. If you will be using the free parking option, we suggest arriving at one of the offsite parking lot locations at least 30 minutes before your scheduled event start times. If you reserved a VIP Experience & Parking Pass or Disabled Parking Pass in advance during online registration, we suggest arriving at the Quarryview Center parking lot at least 15 minutes before your scheduled event start time.

See more detailed information and maps here.

Will I be able to hear Making Spirits Bright's holiday music on the course?

Standing speakers are intermittently placed throughout the course for participants to enjoy the synchronized lights and music. Please note that because of the long length of the course, limited power outlets in Evergreen Park and limited availability of rental equipment that is paid for, participants will not hear music for the entire length of the course. Please consider downloading a radio app on your phone and tuning to 89.1 FM.

Are pets allowed on the course?

Leashed pets are welcome at the event and Evergreen Park. Due to how narrow the course is and considering the safety of participants and animals, pets are not allowed on the course during the 5K run. However, we do welcome our furry friends for the 1-mile walks. Please clean up after your pet. 

Am I able bring a stroller or wagon on the shuttle buses and course?

Yes. We value this event as being family-friendly. Strollers and wagons are permitted for the 5K run and 1-mile walk with the condition of being aware of your surroundings. We kindly ask that families the 5K with strollers begin in the back and stay to the right for the duration of the run.

Please note that shuttle services from off-site parking to and from the event location will be on school buses. School buses can accommodate strollers and wagons, but there is limited space. We highly recommend using our Family-Friendly Drop-off Zone on the south side of the parking lot the Quarryview Center parking lot. Beginning at 3:00 PM, participants with strollers, wagons, and wheelchairs and/or participants who are carpooling are highly encouraged to use this. Drivers must park at offsite parking lots unless they have reserved either a VIP Experience & Parking Pass and Disabled Parking Pass in advance.

See more detailed information and maps here.

Am I able to watch and cheer 5K runners along the course?

Yes. A designated 5K run spectator viewing area will be located near the finish line. We kindly ask that if spectators are planning to walk the course following the run, that they please register for one of the walk waves. Race bibs (5K run) and wristbands (1-mile walk) provided to registered participants at packet pickup are required to enter the course.

View our Course and Event Map to see the spectator viewing area location.

Can I take photos with displays along the course?

It's important that we make sure Making Spirits Bright's displays are protected from damage and that participants are safe. Participants are welcome to take photos along the course with displays in the background, but are not permitted to step off of the course pavement or touch displays. We appreciate the cooperation.

Will there be bathrooms available?

A few portable toilets will be available at the Quarryview Center parking lot on the way to the course. The bathroom stalls inside of the Quarryview Center will also available.

Can I walk the course after I run the 5K run? 

Runners are welcome to walk the course until the course closes for all participants at 7:00 PM and do not need to register for the 1-mile walk. Please note that shuttle buses for each offsite parking lot make final pickups at the Quarryview Center parking lot at 7:30 PM.

Will there be food available to purchase?

Yes! The Snack Shack and Jose's Food Truck will be parked at the Quarryview Center parking lot. Both accept cash and cards. For those attending the award ceremony and after party, 3 Sheeps Brewing offers popcorn and other snacks inside their taproom. You're also welcome to bring in whatever food you would like or have food delivered. 

What happens if the event is canceled? 

In the unfortunate circumstance that we would have to cancel this event due to unsafe weather conditions, participants and volunteers will be notified by 8:00 AM on November 22 via the email that was used to register for this event. The same notification will be made on Sheboygan County Food Bank's Facebook page. Due to logistical constraints, a rain date will not be scheduled and our refund policy states that refunds will not be issued to participants. Thank you for understanding.

I missed receiving my 5K run award. What is the next step?

If you were a top 5K run finisher and missed receiving your award, awards will not be mailed, but they will be available for pickup 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday, at Sheboygan County Food Bank (3115 N. 21 Street, Door A, in Sheboygan) until Friday, December 5. Please note that Sheboygan County Food Bank will be closed on Thursday, November 27 and Friday, November 28.

For the first time, we're partnering with Making Spirits Bright for an onsite food collection from 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM located in a tent next to the Quarryview Center. Participants and volunteers who bring three unexpired, non-perishable food items to donate will be able to put in an entry to win a door prize. Winners will be randomly chosen after the event ends and contacted by email.

Below are door prizes generously provided by local businesses and organizations.

3 Sheeps Brewing: Brewery tour tickets (2) and branded sunglasses (2), drink koozies (2), playing cards, stickers, pins, patch, bottle opener key chain and bandana (one winner)

Visit Sheboygan: Sheboygan merchandise and accessories, including knit beanie, t-shirt, sling bag, brat oath plaque, drink koozie, mug, wooden dice set, pin and magnet (one winner)

Above & Beyond Children's Museum: Annual family membership that includes free admission for daily visits to ABCM, reciprocal admission to 200+ Children's Museums across the US, free admission to the Children's Museum of Fond du Lac, reduced registration rates for special events, special members-only event(s) and programming throughout the year, and a 10% discount on Gift Shop purchases (one winner)

Kohler Company: One massage at the Kohler Water Spa (one winner)

Sports Core: One-month Sports Core membership (one winner), one-month unlimited pickleball at the Sports Core (one winner), 45-minute pickleball lesson with a Sports Core coach and a Sports Core pickleball towel (one winner), and professional pickleball paddle (one winner)

Bold Cycle: Individual class pass to Bold Cycle (two winners)

Yoga on the Lake: Individual class pass to Yoga on the Lake (two winners)

Wigwam: Pair of running socks (three winners)

Packet pickup is where participants receive race bibs and pins (5K run), wristbands (1-mile walk), and any apparel or other items that were ordered during the registration process. Each of the first 500 people who registered will also receive a special goodie bag filled with giveaways/materials from sponsors and key partners, including local cheese generously provided by our friends at Sartori and Sargento! Packets must be picked up before entering the event, and bibs and wristbands must be worn at the event.

Sponsors and Employers Offering Free/Discounted Registrations

Sponsors and employers who offered free/discounted registrations will have used a unique coupon code during registration. These individuals' packets will pre-grouped into boxes or large bags. A representative is welcome to attend any of the scheduled packet pickup times below and will only need to provide the employer name instead of individual names. Individuals are welcome to pick up their packets, but they still need to first provide their employer’s name. 

Individual Registrants 

All other participants are welcome to visit any of the scheduled packet pickups below and only need to provide their first and last name. Packets may be picked up on behalf of other participants (i.e., family members, friends, coworkers). If you will be picking up two or more packets, please print, complete and bring this Packet Pickup Form. These forms will also be available onsite to fill out at packet pickup. 

Packet Pickup Dates, Times and Locations

Option 1: Thursday, November 20, 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM at Sheboygan County Food Bank, Door A (3115 N 21st St., Sheboygan, WI 53083)

Option 2: Friday, November 21, 10:00 PM - 2:00 PM at Sheboygan County Food Bank, Door A (3115 N 21st St., Sheboygan, WI 53083)

Option 3: Saturday, November 22, 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM inside large tent outside of Quarryview Center (3401 Calumet Dr, Sheboygan, WI 53083)*

*Parking is available in the Quarryview Center parking lot from 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Please note that beginning at 3:00 PM, there is no parking at the Quarryview Center parking lot unless you are a volunteer or have reserved either a VIP Experience & Parking Pass or Disabled Parking Pass in advance during online registration. After 3:00 PM, please use a shuttle bus to arrive at the event and visit packet pickup.

Parking for Volunteers and Participants with Reserved Parking Passes 

Volunteers as well as participants with VIP Experience & Parking Passes and Disabled Parking Passes park at the Quarryview Center parking lot (closest to event). Parking instructions will be emailed to pass holders by Monday, November 17.

Free Parking and Shuttle Service

Please note that beginning at 3:00 PM on the day of the event there is no parking at the Quarryview Center parking lot located at 3401 Calumet Dr. in Sheboygan (closest to event) unless you are a volunteer or have reserved either a VIP Experience & Parking Pass or Disabled Parking Pass in advance during online registration. 

There will be free offsite parking at parking lots within one mile of the main event site (please see options below). Multiple shuttle buses will run from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM and continually service the offsite parking lots to transfer participants to and from Quarryview Center parking lot. Please arrive at one of the offsite parking lot locations at least 30 minutes before your scheduled event start times. Special thanks to Discovery Coach for generously providing this service!

Option 1: 

• Pigeon River Elementary School: 3508 N. 21st Street in Sheboygan, WI 53083
• Shuttle stop details: Buses will pick up and drop off participants on the west side of the school’s campus.

Option 2:

• Former North Bowl: North Avenue between N. 21st Street and Muth Court, Sheboygan, WI 53083
• Shuttle stop details: Buses will pick up and drop off participants on the north side of North Avenue.

Option 3 (limited space):

• 3 Sheeps Brewing: 1837 North Avenue in Sheboygan, WI 53083 (including overflow parking lot on the north side of North Ave.)
• Shuttle stop details: Buses will pick up and drop off participants on the south side of North Avenue. If you are parking at the overflow parking lot on the north side of North Avenue, please use the shuttle stop at the former North Bowl.

Shuttle Service Details

• Shuttle service begins from offsite parking lots at 3:00 PM.
• School buses drop off (pick up) participants from (to) offsite parking lots on the east side of the Quarryview Parking lot.
• Final pickups at the Quarryview Center parking lot are at 7:30 PM.

Free Family-Friendly Drop-off Zone (Highly Recommended for Families and Carpooling Participants)

Located on the south side of the Quarryview Center parking lot, the Family-Friendly Drop-off Zone makes the event more easily accessible for all participants, while also helping decrease shuttle bus wait times. Beginning at 3:00 PM, participants with strollers, wagons, and wheelchairs and/or participants who are carpooling are welcome and highly encouraged to use this. Drivers must park at offsite parking lots unless they have reserved either a VIP Experience & Parking Pass and Disabled Parking Pass in advance. 

 

Click here to View Parking and Shuttle Service Maps and Details

 

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22

Quarryview Center Area and Evergreen Park (3401 Calumet Drive, Sheboygan, WI 53083)

Participants access the course in Evergreen Park from the Quarryview Center parking lot using a lit path under the Calumet Drive bridge. The course follows Evergreen Park’s paved road that is transformed into a drive-through for Making Spirits Bright's holiday lights and music show.

12:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Pre-registered packet pickup, event-day registration, volunteer check-in, and limited quantity of all apparel items and travel mugs for sale in large tent outside of Quarryview Center

3:00 PM: Offsite parking lots open for parking and shuttle service begins from offsite parking lots

3:00 PM - 7:00 PM:

 – Parking: The Quarryview Center parking lot open for volunteers, participants using Family-Friendly Drop-off Zone and participants with VIP Experience & Parking Passes or Disabled Parking Passes reserved in advance 

 – Holiday Hall (Quarryview Center): Complimentary hot chocolate and cookies (sponsored by Sue Breitbach Fenn Agency of American Family Insurance), photo opportunity and letter drop-off with Santa (every letter that has a return address on it will get a response from a team of elves!), and ATM available

 – Food collection: Making Spirits Bright food donation collection with chance to win door prizes located in a tent next to the Quarryview Center (more details here)

 – Food trucks: The Snack Shack and Jose's Food Truck parked in the Quarryview Center parking lot

3:00 PM - 5:00 PM: Gear check available near finish line

3:40 PM: Pre-race warm-up begins near 5K run start line with personal trainer in grass field on the way to the start line

4:00 PM: 5K run starts

5:00 PM: 1-mile walk starts (Wave 1)*

5:30 PM: 1-mile walk starts (Wave 2)*

6:00 PM: 1-mile walk starts (Wave 3)*

7:00 PM: Course and Holiday Hall (Quarryview Center) close

7:30 PM: Shuttle buses make final pickups at the Quarryview Center parking lot

*Walk waves do not have an official countdown. Volunteers will help guide the first walk wave participants at approximately 5:00 PM (or once all 5K run participants are safely off of the course). The waves of walkers with start times at 5:30 PM and 6:00 PM are welcome to enter the course upon arrival.

3 Sheeps Brewing (1837 North Ave, Sheboygan, WI 53083)

3 Sheeps Brewing is a dog-friendly 10,000 sq. ft taproom with 25 taps featuring taproom-only beers and year-round favorites. Less than a mile from the main event location, stop by to warm up, enjoy locally-crafted beer and grab a bite to eat! Snacks are available to purchase inside their taproom. You're also welcome to bring in whatever food you would like or have food delivered. Chester's Waterfront food truck will be parked outside serving burgers, steak sandwiches, cheese curds, french fries and more. 

5:30 PM (approximately): 5K run award ceremony starts

6:00 PM: Masters of the Universe concert kicks off 

Sheboygan County Food Bank distributes food through its core programs and in partnership with local food pantries and other organizations to make sure nutritious food reaches thousands of families, children, and seniors.

2024 IMPACT SNAPSHOT

• Food+ for Neighbors distributed 1.2 million pounds of food through our onsite Sheboygan Cares Food Pantry and network of 40 partner organizations, supporting over 5,700 family visits each month. Over 430,000 pounds of food distributed was fresh produce, dairy products, meat and fish.
• Stockbox delivered pantry staples to 38 low-income seniors each month.
• Food for Thought for Kids provided weekend snacks and meals for 550 vulnerable children during the 2024-2025 school year.

Many families in Sheboygan County are still struggling to put food on the table in 2025. On average, we’re tracking about 5,600 family visits each month at our Sheboygan Cares Food Pantry and partner organizations.

The Holiday Lights Hunger Run/Walk is Sheboygan County Food Bank's primary, annual fundraiser event that takes place at Making Spirits Bright before it's open to the public for the season. How does it come together? It takes a community of dedicated and generous organizations, businesses, and individuals.

• Making Spirits Bright is the Host Sponsor and works throughout the day of the event to make sure lights and music are operating smoothly.
• Community members work with Sheboygan County Food Bank's staff to organize the logistics as a committee throughout the year.
• Local businesses and organizations provide in-kind donations and sponsorships.
• Over 150 volunteers bundle up to help out with packet pickup, gear check, shuttle bus stops, water stations, the course, and clean up.

Sponsorships, registration fees, VIP parking passes, shirts and other gear, and donations for this event directly support Sheboygan County Food Bank's work to support our neighbors in need. In the first seven years of this event, over $430,000 has been raised!

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Sheboygan County Food Bank's mission is to lead Sheboygan County’s efforts to increase the food security of its residents by distributing healthy emergency food and fostering innovative partnerships. Learn more in their 2024 Annual Report.

1-Mile Walk (Wave 1): Parking

1-Mile Walk (Wave 2): Parking

1-Mile Walk (Wave 3): Parking

5K Run: Parking