Frequently Asked Questions
See the answers to some FAQ regarding the Columbus Donut Run and Walk below.
Also, we are diving into the world of AI, so please feel free to ask Big Tom, our AI chatbot, your questions. Big Tom is the hungry red monster chowing down a donut on the bottom right of your screen!
The Columbus Donut Run & Walk is a fun, family-friendly running event in Columbus, Ohio featuring multiple race distances, a festive atmosphere, and donuts for all participants at the finish line.
The Columbus Donut Run & Walk takes place on Saturday, June 20, 2026.
The race is held at Scioto Audubon Metro Park in Columbus, Ohio. The start/finish line is located near the climbing wall within Scioto Audubon Metro Park.
The event is organized by USA Race Timing & Event Management, a company specializing in professionally timed running events.
Yes, the event is designed for all fitness levels, including beginners, walkers, and families.
Participants can choose from a 1-mile run/walk, 5K, 10K, or the Kids Donut Dash.
Yes, walkers are welcome in all race distances.
The Kids Donut Dash is a short, fun run (approximately ¼ mile) designed for children ages 8 and under, although there is not a hard age limit.
Yes, a virtual race option allows participants to complete their run anytime and anywhere.
Registration fees vary by distance and increase as race day approaches. Click here and scroll down to find the pricing schedule.
Yes, race day registration is available, but earlier registration is encouraged if you want to ensure that you get a race T-shirt in the size you desire.
You can register online through the official RunSignup race page.
Participants must register by June 11, 2026 to guarantee their preferred shirt size.
The Kids Donut Dash begins at 8:45 AM, and all other races start at 9:00 AM.
All races start and finish on the walking path near the climbing wall at Scioto Audubon Metro Park.
Yes, all race distances are professionally chip timed.
Yes — wear your bib visibly for accurate timing. Also please pin it to your clothing so that the numbers read normally. If you pin a race bib sideways on your clothing, the timing mats will not read your chip.
Yes, chip timing ensures accurate results even if you start slightly after the main group.
The course is paved, and beginner-friendly, with only some small, gentle hills, making it ideal for runners and walkers of all abilities.
Yes, all race routes take place on paved trails.
Yes, water stations are available and located at the turnaround points for the 5k and 10k distances
Course maps are available on the official race website and within the RunSignup website.
Participants receive a race shirt, finisher medal, bib, donut, refreshments, and free race photos.
Yes, a large inflatable donut provides a great photo backdrop, and there will be friendly and goofy donut mascots at the race!
We will do our best to find an affordable source of gluten-free donuts, but it is not guaranteed at this time.
Free parking is available at Scioto Audubon Metro Park. There are multiple parking lots within walking distance of the start/finish line.
Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash. If your furry friend will be sharing the miles with you, please start after the main group to avoid crowding
They are allowed but not recommended for safety. A good alternative is to use bone-conduction headphones (such as Shokz) so that you can jam to your tunes AND be aware of your surroundings!
Absolutely! Strollers are allowed on the course. and there will most likely be a donut at the end for your passenger if they are of donut-eating age!
The race takes place rain or shine but may be delayed if conditions are unsafe (i.e. lightning is present)
Early pickup is held at Road Runner Sports from 4-6pm. Race day pickup will be at the park starting at 8am.
Absolutely yes! Just let those assisting with packet pickup know so that they can write everybody's names on the back of their respective bibs so that everybody gets credited for the proper race result!
Yes! Columbus Metro Parks have a permanent restroom facility within about 100m of the start/finish line.
There is not a time limit for this race. If you think that you will require more than 2 hours to complete a 10k, please let the timer at the start/finish line know so that they are aware of your circumstances.