Bright Lights 5K and Fun Run
other

Artistic rendering โ€“ Event may differ

Bright Lights 5K and Fun Run

Lace up for the third annual Bright Lights 5K and Fun Run, a festive race through the illuminated Daniel Stowe Conservancy. This unique event offers a chance to experience the 'Holidays at the Garden' light display during a special sneak peek party before it officially opens. It's the perfect way to kick off the holiday season and create lasting family traditions.

What to Expect

Run through holiday lights before public opening.

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $$ โ€“ Get tickets
  • Parking: Packet pickup is in the Grand Hall. Garden gates close at 5:50 PM for runners and reopen after runners are safely off the entry road.
  • Accessibility: The course is multi-surface and includes paved roads, grass fields, natural trails, and garden pathways. It is not stroller-friendly, but doable with a running or hiking stroller.
  • Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)

Other Christmas Events Near Belmont

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ ๐ŸŽ„ (5/5)

Best For

Families, runners, holiday enthusiasts

Vibe

Festive, active, magical

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท ๐Ÿ“ท (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

High

Special Events & Promotions

  • Third annual event
  • Exclusive sneak peek of Holiday Lights display
  • Custom ornament (1 Mile) or finisher medal (5K)
  • Top 3 race medal opportunities
  • Race shirts available for purchase until November 13th

Tags

holiday light displaysfamily friendlyseasonal activitiescommunity celebrationwinter activitiescharity eventfestive atmosphereholiday tradition

Location

The Gardens at Stowe
6500 South New Hope Road
Belmont, NC
28012

Event Details

Duration

2 hours

Ages

All ages (children 2 and under are free)

Timed Entry

Yes

Organizer

Daniel Stowe Conservancy

Food & Drink

Not specified, but implied that food and drink are available at the after-party.

Quick Actions

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early for packet pickup between 4:00 PM and 5:30 PM to avoid any last-minute rush before the 6:00 PM race start.
  • Consider purchasing a race shirt by November 13th, as they are only available for purchase until that date.
  • The course is multi-surface, including paved roads, grass, and trails; wear appropriate footwear for running on varied terrain.
  • Children aged 2 and under are free, but all other attendees, including those accompanying runners, must register for the 5K or 1-mile run to access the Holiday Lights sneak peek.
  • This event takes place the day before Thanksgiving, making it a unique way to start your holiday celebrations and earn your Thanksgiving feast!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included with race registration?

Registration includes a race bib, a custom ornament for the 1-mile fun run, or a finisher medal for the 5K. Participants also receive free entry to the 'Holidays at the Garden' lights display for a sneak peek party.

Can I bring a stroller?

The course is multi-surface and not considered 'stroller friendly.' While it's possible to use a running or hiking stroller, it may be challenging, and you likely won't achieve your best stroller time.

What are the registration fees?

Pricing varies by registration period. Early Bird registration (Sep 22 - Oct 5) is $49.65 for the 5K and $28.45 for the 1-mile run. Regular Registration (Oct 6 - Oct 26) is $60.25 for the 5K and $33.75 for the 1-mile run. Last Chance Pricing (Oct 27 - Nov 23) is $70.85 for the 5K and $39.05 for the 1-mile run.

Are there any age restrictions?

Children aged 2 and under are free. All other participants, regardless of age, must register for either the 5K or the 1-mile Fun Run to gain entry to the Holiday Lights sneak peek party.

What happens if the event is canceled?

Race Management reserves the right to cancel or modify the event due to unfavorable conditions. Registration fees are non-refundable in the event of cancellation due to 'Acts of God,' unless Refund Protection was purchased.

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Nov 2, 2025
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team

Follow us for updates and more events!