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Race profile

Unbound Now's Light Up The Dark 5K Presented by Chick-fil-A

Overview

5K · 1K · 0.6 mi

Apr 18, 2026 · Waco, Texas, US

Listed Sep 29, 2016

FunTexas5KCause DrivenFestive SeasonalEasygoing

The read

Run Vibes summary

AI-assisted

At a glance (AI-assisted text)

Join the Unbound Now Light Up The Dark 5K, a family-friendly glow-in-the-dark run at Cameron Park Zoo, raising awareness and funds to fight human trafficking.

The vibe (AI-assisted text)

This event is all about lighting up the night for a good cause, bringing together families and runners of all paces for a truly unique experience. The atmosphere is designed to be fun and inclusive, with a vibrant glow-in-the-dark theme that makes it stand out. You'll find a mix of casual walkers, families with kids, and dedicated runners, all united by the mission to support Unbound Now's anti-human trafficking work. It's a community-focused gathering where good times meet meaningful impact.

Best for (AI-assisted text)

This race is perfect for families looking for a memorable evening activity, casual runners or walkers who enjoy a festive atmosphere, and anyone passionate about supporting a vital cause. It's also a great option for those seeking a unique twist on a traditional 5K, with its glow-in-the-dark theme and zoo setting.

Race day (AI-assisted text)

Expect a lively evening at Cameron Park Zoo, starting with event opening at 5:30 p.m. for day-of check-in and race kit pickup. There will be performances, food trucks, and a photo booth to enjoy before the races begin. The 1K kicks off at 7:00 p.m., followed by the 5K run at 7:45 p.m., ensuring a cool, dark setting for the 'glowing good time.' Awards will be presented after the 5K, wrapping up a night of fun and purpose.

Personality (AI-assisted text)

The event has a warm, community-oriented personality, blending playful fun with a serious mission. It feels like a celebratory gathering where participants can enjoy music, games, and the unique glow experience, all while contributing to a significant cause. The tone is uplifting and inclusive, encouraging everyone from 'slow walkers' to 'professional runners' to join in the fight against human trafficking.

Weather snapshot (AI-assisted text)

Taking place in Waco, Texas, in mid-April, you can generally expect pleasant spring weather. While daytime temperatures might be warm, the evening start time means cooler, more comfortable conditions for running. It's wise to check the forecast closer to the date, but typically, April evenings in Texas are mild and enjoyable.

Terrain & course feel (AI-assisted text)

The race is held at Cameron Park Zoo, suggesting a course primarily on paved paths or well-maintained park trails. Given it's a zoo, expect a relatively flat course with potentially some gentle undulations or slight inclines typical of a park environment. Specific elevation details are not provided, but it's likely suitable for all fitness levels.

Signals we noticed (from listing text, AI-assisted)

  • fun, family-friendly
  • glow-in-the-dark run
  • raise money and awareness for anti-human trafficking work of Unbound
  • annual event
  • fun for everyone, whether you’re a slow walker or a professional runner
  • in-person and virtual options
  • Cameron Park Zoo in Waco, Texas
  • food trucks, music, games, and a 'glowing good time'
  • Zoo Spectator Pass mentioned
  • Day-of check in and race kit pick up
  • Performances
  • Photo booth
  • 1K and 5K distances
  • Awards at the conclusion of the 5K
  • Glow Global box with glow-in-the-dark gear for virtual participants

This section is produced with AI from the listing we have on file—think of it as a quick orientation, not a rulebook. Organizers can update start times, courses, policies, and perks at any time, so when something really matters, please lean on their official race page for the latest. We don’t independently verify every detail against live organizer updates; we’re here to help you get a feel for the event and decide if you want to dig deeper.

Original listingRegistration & details — Full description from sourceExpand the official listing text (unchanged)

The Unbound Now Light Up The Dark 5K Presented by Chick Fil A is a fun, family-friendly “glow-in-the-dark” run to raise money and awareness for the anti-human trafficking work of Unbound. This annual event is fun for everyone, whether you’re a slow walker or a professional runner! This year, we are offering in-person and virtual options to participants to fight human trafficking in Waco, Texas, and around the world. Build a team, set a goal, and raise funds on the side to end human trafficking! 

IN-PERSON: Join us at Cameron Park Zoo in Waco, Texas on April 18, 2026, for a night of fun and wild experiences. We'll have food trucks, music, games, and a "glowing good time." You must have a Zoo Spectator Pass to get into the Zoo if you are not register for the 5K or 1K event.

5:30 p.m. Event Opens 

  • Day-of check in and race kit pick up
  • Performances
  • Food trucks: TBD
  • Photo booth

5:30-6:30 p.m. Kick-off and performances!

6:30 p.m. Check-in/Registration for all events closes!

7:00 p.m. 1K

7:45 p.m. 5K run

Awards at the conclusion of the 5K

Light Up The Dark in spirit 5K Sofa Edition (virtual): Fight human trafficking wherever you are in the world! Get your friends, family, or coworkers together to support Unbound. Register as an individual or set up a team and receive our Glow Global box with glow-in-the-dark gear for you and your crew by mail, if you register by March 16th at 11:59 p.m.

We'll send out other info and ways to join in the fun to race registrants between now and race day. Make sure you're registered so we can keep you up to date! Share your ideas with us by tagging @unboundwaco, @unboundnow and using the hashtag #LightUpTheDark5K. 

Thanks to our amazing sponsors for making this event possible! 

Race Day Packet Pick up is TBD

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