W.C. Handy Festival DaDooRon Run

Lace up, tune in, and move to the rhythm — the DaDooRon Run 5K is ready to swing, bringing that smooth‑as‑butter blend of music, movement, and community back into the W.C. Handy Festival lineup. This race came roaring back last year, proving the rhythm never really left — it was just waiting for the downbeat. Now in 2026, we’re tuning up for an even bigger crowd, a louder cheer, and a whole lot more groove. This isn’t just a run, it’s a stride‑for‑stride celebration of Florence Heritage and a Blues Legend; a chance to feel the pulse of the festival under your feet.; and a way to support the Music Preservation Society and Florence High School Cross‑Country Team with tempo and heart. So don’t wait for the encore, register now and claim your spot on the starting line. Course 5K USATF Certification #AL25019JE Amenities, Features, and Highlights SWAG All runners registered before our T-shirt deadline on July 11th are guaranteed an awesome short-sleeve race shirt. Medals and Prizes Awards for 5K Overall Male/Female, Masters (40+) Male/Female, GrandMasters Male/Female (60+), and 1st, 2nd, 3rd Male/Female Age Groups (12U, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+) Aid Stations There will be two aid and recovery stations, one aid station will be available at the START/FINISH line area and one between mile 1 and 2 of the course. The START/FINISH line are aid station will have hydration, first aid, snacks, and electrolytes. On Course aid station will have water and first aid. Additional Information Early Packet Pick-up Friday, July 17th at Solid Rock Running Company from 3:00-6:00 pm Race Day Schedule Packet Pick-up and In-person Registration: 6:00-6:45 AM Announcements and 5K call to start: 6:45 AM 5K Race Start: 7:00 AM Fun Run Start: 8:00 AM Awards: 8:30 AM FAQ Who does this race benefit? The Music Preservation Society and Florence High School Cross‑Country Team Where is the race? Downtown Florence with a combined START/FINISH in front of the W.C. Handy Muse