For some people, running a marathon is not the ideal way to spend a Saturday morning. However, the addition of unique elements like chalk, a competitive-free atmosphere, and a party at the end line draws huge crowds to the Color Run each year.

“I really like the Color Run because it’s super fun and high energy. Everything is so happy and cheerful because everyone is so colorful, and dressed in fun outfits. It’s a 5K, but there is no pressure to run at all. Most people actually walk it. You don’t need to be athletic, or in shape to participate. People should sign up because it’s something different to add to your summer, and it was a really fun experience,” said sophomore Ava Kruse.

On July 13th, the five-kilometer race will begin on Liggett Street in Falcon Heights near the Minnesota State Fair and end in the State Fairgrounds. If you are interested in running in this event, consider signing up soon. The 8:30 a.m., 9:15 a.m., and 10:00 a.m. run times are already sold out. However, the 10:45 a.m. run time is still open.

The price is forty dollars if you sign up with a team of four people or more, and forty five dollars if you sign up individually by May 1st.  On June 15th, the price goes up fifty dollars per person if you’re a part of a team and fifty five if you’re running individually.

The Color Run is comprised of four different areas of chalk. First you get showered in blue chalk, later yellow, then pink, and finally purple. As a result, you look like a rainbow as you cross the finish line. The Color Run suggests that you show up in all white to maximize the effect of the chalk.

By participating in the Color Run, you also contribute to the efforts of organizations such as Global Citizen, Step Up 2 Cancer, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and the Prostate Cancer Foundation.