BIG NEWS FROM TJCC! Welcome to the Northern Lights 5K Fun Run at the Grand Traverse County Civic Center! The Northern Lights 5K Fun Run has a new home! Hosted by the Thomas Judd Care Center, this year’s event is moving to the Grand Traverse County Civic Center, bringing a bright new energy and a course designed for everyone. We’re introducing a triple loop course! A flat, easy-to-follow route that’s perfect for runners, walkers, families, and all ages. Whether you’re moving fast or taking it at your own pace, you’ll circle the course three times, enjoying the lights and community along the way. Three loops = more glow, more fun, and more chances to cheer each other on! Same welcoming, feel-good event - just in a new location that makes it even easier to participate and celebrate together. Get Ready to Glow! Thomas Judd Care Center’s 9th Annual Northern Lights 5K Fun Run Friday, September 11 | 8:00 PM Start & Finish: Grand Traverse County Civic Center/ Pavilion Parking Lot Lace up your sneakers and light up the night! Join us for an unforgettable evening at the Northern Lights 5K Fun Run, hosted by the Thomas Judd Care Center to raise awareness for HIV care and prevention resources across Northern Michigan. Whether you're running or walking, this 5K course offers glowing fun, community spirit, and a chance to make a difference! Registration Includes: Neon event tee (limited to early registrants—don’t wait!) Timed event Post-race snacks Finisher medals Cash Prizes! Top Overall Male & Female Finisher: $300 Male & Female Division: 1st Place: $150 2nd Place: $100 3rd Place: $50 We're turning up the excitement this year with new cash prize drawings: Northern Lights Finisher Drawing - All race finishers (run, walk, crawl) will be entered to win one of three $50 cash prizes! Northern Lights Spirit Drawing - Show off your glow! Embrace the theme and light up the night with your best neon, LED, or glow-in-the-dark gear. All creatively lit-up and enthusiast
3.1 Miles: Moisture Wicking Unisex T-Shirt
| Distance | Price | Opens | Closes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.1 Miles | $20.00 | May 1 | May 10 |
| $25.00 | May 11 | Jul 31 | |
| $30.00 | Aug 1 | Sep 6 |
| Year | Finishers | Median Time | Fastest Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 125 | 32:53 | 16:05 |
| 2024 | 88 | 30:52 | 15:51 |
| 2023 | 151 | 41:45 | 19:51 |
| 2022 | 118 | 38:28 | 16:33 |
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