Witches, Warlocks, Skeletons and normal Muggles are all invited to a fun run and ride. The City of Gulf Shores is thrilled to announce the return of the Haunted Hustle on October 19th, at Gulf Place Town Green & Public Beach, located at 101 Gulf Shores Parkway. This family-friendly Halloween event is packed with activities, including a 5K Walk/Run, a Fun Run, the Witches on Wheels Bike Parade, and live entertainment provided by a DJ. Locals and visitors alike are invited to participate while dressed in their best Halloween costumes. Casting spells on other participants is not allowed :)
The proceeds from the event will benefit the Dolphin Foundation for Education and Arts, adding a meaningful cause to the night of fun.
The Haunted Hustle 5K Walk/Run kicks off at 7:10 p.m. with participants setting out on a certified course that begins and ends in front of Gulf Place Town Green. This chip-timed event will award prizes to the top three fastest male and female finishers across different age groups, including special categories for Master, Grand Master, and Senior Grand Master competitors. Registration costs for the 5K vary depending on when participants sign up, with early registration starting at $25 and increasing to $40 for those registering on race day. Each participant will receive a goodie bag and an event shirt, with preferred shirt sizes guaranteed for those who register before October 1st.
Starting the festivities at 6 p.m., the Witches on Wheels Bike Parade invites participants to embrace their inner witch or warlock and take to their bikes for a two-mile ride. The parade, which encourages creativity and fun, will include participants throwing beads and candy to spectators along the route. Early registration for the Witches on Wheel's event starts at $25, with prices increasing up to $40 on the day of the event. Like the 5K, participants will receive a goodie bag and an event shirt.
The Fun Run, which will commence at 6:30 p.m., is a one-mile, non-competitive event that offers a chance for all ages to enjoy a casual run through the scenic Gulf Shores setting. All Fun Run participants will receive a finisher's medal, a goodie bag, and an event shirt. As with the other events, early registration begins at $25, with increasing fees closer to the event day.
The Haunted Hustle 5K Walk/Run kicks off at 7:10 p.m. with participants setting out on a certified course that begins and ends in front of Gulf Place Town Green. This chip-timed event will award prizes to the top three fastest male and female finishers across different age groups, including special categories for Master, Grand Master, and Senior Grand Master competitors. Registration costs for the 5K vary depending on when participants sign up, with early registration starting at $25 and increasing to $40 for those registering on race day. Each participant will receive a goodie bag and an event shirt, with preferred shirt sizes guaranteed for those who registered before October 1st.
Participants are encouraged to pick up their race packets ahead of time to avoid delays on event day. Packet pickup will be available at the Bodenhamer Recreation Center on October 16 and at Big Beach Brewing Company on October 17th and 18th. On-site packet pickup will also be offered from 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on race day at Gulf Place Town Green.
Awards will be presented for both the 5K Walk and the 5K Run. The walking event, which strictly prohibits running or jogging, will recognize the top three fastest male and female walkers. The 5K Run will include awards for the top three runners in various age groups, as well as special prizes for top Master, Grand Master, and Senior Grand Master finishers.
In case of inclement weather, event organizers will monitor conditions closely, particularly for lightning, heavy rain, or high winds. Safety is a priority, and any postponements or cancellations will be communicated on the Gulf Shores Recreation Division Facebook page. The event will proceed in the case of rain, but lightning may result in 30-minute delays or eventual cancellation if safety concerns persist. Refunds will not be provided in the event of cancellation, but participants will still be able to collect their race shirts and goodie bags.
The Haunted Hustle offers an opportunity for the Gulf Shores community to come together for a night of spirited fun, fitness, and philanthropy. From competitive runners to families simply looking for an enjoyable evening, the event offers something for everyone. For additional information or to register, interested participants can email recreationinformation@gulfshoresal.gov or call 251-968-1420. Race Director Holly Howell, Fitness Coordinator for the City of Gulf Shores, can also be contacted directly at hhowell@gulfshoresal.gov or by calling 251-968-9824.
Get ready to dress up, have fun, and support a great cause at the Haunted Hustle on October 19th — it promises to be a night of spooky excitement and community spirit.
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