Runners to race during night at Glacier Glow

Columbia Falls will trip the light fantastic Friday as it hosts its first ever Glacier Glow Run.

Glow runs are gaining popularity across the country as runners take 5 kilometer runs in the dark wearing glow-in-the-dark accessories. Along the route, they are sprayed with colors that also glow in the dark when lit by blue lights.

The non-timed event promises to be fun for the whole family.

The Columbia Falls Lions Club will team up with the promoters of the Snow Joke Half Marathon to bring the run to town. Presented by Fastoys and Cowgirl Coffee in partnership with the Daily Inter Lake, the Glacier Glow 5K will take runners from the Coop through River’s Edge Park and back to enjoy a flashy, pulsating dance party under the stars.

The race will start about 8:30 p.m. Friday or whenever darkness falls, according to race director Christie Magill.

“We are excited to connect the Columbia Falls community with the Lions Club in an exciting and energizing way,” Magill said. “The Coop is a wonderful venue to throw a party, so we decided to start and finish the run there and pull it all together with music, lights, food, community and more.”

A substantial portion of the proceeds from the Glacier Glow 5K will go to the Columbia Falls Lions Club chapter.

Volunteers are needed. People or groups interested in volunteering can learn more and sign up at glacierglow.com.

Cost is $35, but increases to $50 after Thursday. Race packets include a race bib, glow bracelet, necklace and glasses. To register for the race, visit glacierglow.com.

Racers can stop by Fastoys Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to pick up their race packets.