Fright Night 5K

Fright Night 5K is run in Samson, Alabama, on October 31, 2026, and it lives up to its name with a 5:00 p.m. start. That evening gun time is the defining feature of the event, since almost every other 5K on the calendar goes off before breakfast.

An evening race actually suits most people's bodies, because you are running at the time of day when strength and coordination peak. The trick is fueling: eat a normal breakfast and a light lunch, then stop eating solid food about three hours out and sip water through the afternoon. Do not sit around all day either, since a short walk or an easy jog at midday keeps you from feeling stiff at the line. Bring reflective gear for the fading light.