Frequently Asked Questions
What is a zombie run?
- 5K Zombie Run was founded to celebrate happiness, healthiness, and friendship!
- Our mission is not about mile markers, but about memories made!
- We created a stress-free, un-timed running event that is all about health and happiness than competition.
- We hope that 5K Zombie Run will be an inspiration to healthy living in your life.
- Runners will endure a 5K run through a zombie-infested course. Test your speed, endurance, and strength while trying to avoid ravenous zombies!
- Runners will wear flags (at least 12 inches long) on either side of their waist (like a flag football belt) that represent their health. Zombies will try to steal those flags throughout the course.
What makes 5K Zombie Run special?
- All participants receive a FREE 5K Zombie Run T-Shirt, Commemorative Finisher Medal, Race Bib, Temp Tattoos, Health Flags, Refreshments, and entrance to the post-race Finish Festival!
- Food vendors on site to satisfy your cravings for hot eats and cool treats!
- All zombies undergo a FREE transformation by our on-site professional make-up artists to help make them the most realistic zombies ever!
- 5K Zombie Run is a nationwide event.
- 5K Zombie Run is proud to help out the local community, not only by hosting our awesome color runs, but also by donating a portion of proceeds to local charities. Specific charities are listed on each event page. Your participation in 5K Zombie Run makes a difference!
What is the layout of the 5K route?
For all of our runs, the route is TWO laps of approximately 2.5km each loop. This is PERFECT for those who want a break halfway through or who wish to be done running the event after one loop.
Prior to the race, zombies will be placed throughout the route in their “zone” and can walk or run (their choice) in an attempt to capture runners’ flags. Zombies must remain in their zone during the event and cannot run along with the runners, but can certainly give chase to runners for a few seconds while they are in their zone.
What about safety?
Safety is the most important aspect of this event. Runners and zombies must respect each other and share the course. Depending on location, the course may change from paved paths to dirt trails. Everyone must be mindful of their surroundings, especially when transitioning into a section that may only fit one person at a time.
Where do we pick up t-shirts and race packets?
Packets and shirts are always available for pick-up on site on event day. If there also happens to be a pre-race packet pick-up, all participants will be notified.
Will zombies attack me?
No direct or intentional contact with another runner or zombie is permitted (course monitors will be present throughout the course during the event). Zombies can go after runner’s flags, but cannot grab body parts, completely impeded passage, or tackle. Runners cannot push other runners into zombies. No fake (or real) weapons allowed. Violators of these rules may be asked to leave the premises.
What is the course like?
All of our courses are in beautiful locations that help to enhance your experience. Maps and the race route are published for each location on the Register page.
Is the race timed?
No, the race and its participants do not get timed. Run, walk, skip, or dance the course! 5K Zombie Run is about having a great time with family and friends for great causes.
What happens if a runner loses all their flags?
If a runner loses all their flags, they keep running and finish the race. Runners who lose all of their flags do not become a zombie.
Can a runner hide their flags?
No. We understand that when trying to survive there are no rules, but this is a fun sporting event. Please don’t cheat!
What is the schedule for the day?
To find the exact schedule for your event, please consult our event list.
What happens if there is bad weather?
- Rain or shine, the race is on, a little rain won’t stop us!
- Since your safety is the most important thing, certain weather (thunderstorm, lightning, tornado, etc.) may cause a severe weather cancellation.
- If threatening weather forces cancellation of the event, no refunds can be provided because funds were already spent in preparation for race day. If an event is cancelled, all participants will receive an e-mail with information on how they can pick up their swag and race kit.
What are the other rules?
- There is no age limit for 5K Zombie Run. If you can cover the 3 mile course (running, jogging, walking) then you can join in on the fun. If they run or walk, they will need to register and have a race bib.
- Visibly intoxicated runners will not be allowed to participate.
- By registering for, participating in, and/or observing this event, you agree to the terms and conditions of the 5K Zombie Run Waiver of Liability.
- Participants under 18 years of age must have an accompanying parent on race day to participate. The parent does not have to register, but is needed to sign the waiver of anyone in their party under age 18. If the parent(s) also want to participate in the event, they will need to register as well.
- While we do have awesome make-up artists on site to transform participants that have signed up to be zombies, you are more than welcome to zombify yourself before the event and show up ready to go!
- Due to safety concerns, no pets or strollers are allowed.
- Flags and bib numbers must be visible on runners at all times.
Are spectators welcome?
YES! We know that runners have friends and family members that want to watch this event and have an enjoyable day. All spectators are free and get to enjoy all that 5K Zombie Run has to offer.
Other questions?
Please send us a message on our Contact Page.
