Student Events Team gears up for Ugly Sweater 5K

Kaitlyn Jorgensen
Staff Writer

Students, are you looking for a free way to get in shape and burn off those leftover Thanksgiving calories? Do you also happen to be a fashionista with a flair for ugly sweaters? 

If you answered yes to either of these questions, then you need to come out to the Ugly Sweater 5K and Holiday Light Show. On Wednesday, Nov. 28, runners will gather on the Performing Arts Lawn in their ugliest Christmas sweaters. Prior to the run, the Student Events team will be serving free food, as well as hosting a raffle and lawn games. 

The 5K route will then take you around the Minnesota State University, Mankato campus. Runners are welcome to wear their own Ugly Sweaters or purchase a MNSU branded long sleeve t-shirt. Minnesota State, University Mankato students can register for free online at www.mnsuevents.com to run the 5K. 

The cost for the public to register is $10 or $15 on race day. Also available for purchase is a MNSU “ugly” long sleeve T-shirt for $15. There are multiple packages to choose from online, including upgrades to have access to heated tents, long sleeve t-shirts, food, games and MNSU customized Hats and scarves. The HOF level includes all these for only $40 per student or $50 for the public. 

When runners return they can enjoy a brief 20-minute light display with timed holiday light displays set to music.

“The holiday light show will be a first of its kind for MNSU. We are trying to bring a little of the holiday spirit to those on campus and during the run. Maybe this will encourage them to view the Kiwanis Lights downtown,” said William Tourville, Assistant Director of Student Activities. “We purchased this equipment with the intention use it over times of the year to bring more Maverick spirit throughout the year,” he said.

Over 1000 lights will be used to create special effects with a specialized controlling software between four songs. This light show will also be showcased again later in the week.

The Student Events Team has hosted other themed 5Ks in the past such as the Inflatable 5K, Color Run 5K, Nearly Naked Mile, and more fun themes! 

Feature photo courtesy of Flickr.