The Lantern Run 5k

Out of all the night races I’ve done, The Lantern Run 5k is probably one of the coolest races I’ve been able to run. Although it was super light when we started to run (I think the creators forgot that day lights savings time had hit before race day. it’s ok! I would have made the same mistake too. Race was at 7:30PM… may have been a little better to start at 8PM or 8:15PM), it got darker as we were finishing up.
Parking — I parked right across Piedmont Park. Where Yoforia is. Makes life easier. But you can take Marta too. I live around Piedmont Park; however, the weather wasn’t good, so I wanted to get to my car quicker in case the rain was bad. Oh, and you can definitely take the Belt Line to walk to Piedmont too. It just cloudy earlier in the day so…
Where to pick your packets– The only day you could do a pre pick up for the packets was a Friday. The pick up destination was at Sport Authority on Cobb Parkway in Marietta. Luckily my office was super close by, so I had no problem getting there! I was in and out within 3 minutes. BTW — you are able to pick up a friend’s packet as long as you had their confirmation page. I love this rule for ALL races. The folks manning the tables were really nice and efficient. Gave me all bags that were needed.
PS — you can pick up your packet the day of the race, might need to be line for a little while…
PPS — Go up a size in shirts. They’re not unisex. :(
Goods — In the bag was the shirt (which were pretty cool!), the glow in the dark box, your race #, and pins. I really liked the glow in the dark stuff that were included. You could make a necklace, bracelet, glasses and etc. SO MANY STICKS!
Race Day —
Lots of people! Dogs! Strollers! It was very entertaining to see people get really dressed up. :D I love how people can get creative. Haha. I saw tons of tutus & folks wear all kinds of crazy outfits.
There are also A LOT of vendors selling stuff & giving out free snacks/​drinks. TBH, folks — drink a small smoothie/​eat a little before coming to the race. You’ll be able to eat/​drink other [expensive] items for free.
The race itself had several hills — My calves say there were 3. The last hill was a killer. It was the LONGEST hill I’ve encountered in awhile. I really hate hills — but hey, no pain no gain.
At the end, you’ll get a medal, water, and a lantern. I was pleasantly surprised. I can’t wait to use my lantern at the Lantern Parade!