24th Annual Race for the Light 5K Fun Run/Walk
More Than a Run. Moving Our Community Forward.
Saturday, December 5, 2026 | 4:30 p.m.
EAA Grounds, Oshkosh
The 2026 Race for the Light 5K Fun Run/Walk, presented by Amcor, is back for another festive evening at the EAA Grounds.
Lace up, light up, and celebrate the season with friends and family during this fun, family-friendly 5K run/walk through the Celebration of Lights. Whether you run, walk, or simply come dressed for the occasion to cheer participants on, Race for the Light is a chance to get moving, enjoy a favorite local holiday tradition, and support Oshkosh Area United Way.
Your participation supports our work across southern Winnebago County, connecting people, partnerships, and resources to expand access to Lifelong Learning, Health & Wellness, and Enabling Resources so everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Register Early
The first 100 people to register will receive a flashing LED bracelet, donated by 4imprint!
All participants will recieve:
- A Race for the Light T-shirt*
- Festive jingle bells
- Plenty of holiday spirit
- And serious kudos for showing up in your ugliest holiday sweater or most festive costume!
*Register by Thursday, November 12, to guarantee your race T-shirt. After November 12, shirts will be available while supplies last.
See 2025 Race for the Light photos and the starting line video HERE!
THE COURSE
The race begins at the EAA Youth Education Center, located at the EAA Aviation Museum, and winds through the Celebration of Lights display at Camp Scholler.
This is a fun run/walk, so gather your family, friends, or co-workers, dress for the season, and experience the lights together!
EARLY T-SHIRT PICKUP
OAUW OFFICE • 16 Washington Ave., Oshkosh
Thursday, December 3 – 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Friday, December 4 – 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
RACE DAY
EAA YOUTH EDUCATION CENTER • 3000 Poberezny Road
3:30 p.m. – Race-day T-shirt pickup and on-site registration open. Note: If you’ve already picked up your T-shirt and submitted your Release Form, you do not need to check in again on race day.
4:30 p.m. – Race Starts
Online registration closes Friday, December 4 at 3 p.m.
Additional race-day and parking information will be shared with registered participants closer to the event.
WEATHER & EVENT POLICY
We reserve the right to postpone or cancel the event due to circumstances beyond our control, including a weather emergency. No refunds will be issued under these circumstances. Event details are subject to change without prior notice.
QUESTIONS?
For more information, call (920) 235-8560 or email oauw@oshkoshunitedway.org.