8 running, walking, and fun run events in Batavia, Illinois

DUE TO SIGNIFICANT NEGATIVE WIND CHILLS, THE NEW DATE OF THIS RACE IS MOVED TO SATURDAY, JANUARY 31ST AT 10AM. VIRTUAL OPTIONS EXIST IF YOU HAVE ALREADY SIGNED UP BUT ARE UNAVAILABLE ON THIS NEW DATE.

Kick off your 2026 trail season with a frosty 5K that’s anything but ordinary. The Fox Valley Winter Challenge Trail Series is back—and we're starting strong at the scenic (and occasionally snow-dusted) Dick Young Forest Preserve in Batavia. Expect winding trails, open prairie views, and that signature winter chill to keep you on your toes.

This is the first race in our three-part Winter Challenge series, which also includes an 8K and 10K at different preserves across the Fox Valley. You can run just the 5K or go all in with the Trail Series Combo to earn all three finisher medals—designed to connect into one epic display—and unlock exclusive series swag.

Perfect for both seasoned trail runners and those just starting to dip their toes into winter racing, this 5K offers a fast, fun, and slightly unpredictable ride through nature’s winter playground. The terrain is a mix of grass, dirt, and crushed limestone, with the added twist of whatever winter throws our way—snow, slush, mud, or crisp dry trails.

Everyone who crosses the finish line walks away with a unique medal and custom winter swag. But more importantly, you’ll earn bragging rights for starting your year off in the most badass way possible.

Lace up, layer up, and we’ll see you out there.

You can sign up 2 or 3 races from any of the race websites, however here are their specific addresses:

5K: https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/Batavia/FoxValleyWinterChallengeTrailSeries1

8K: https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/Aurora/FoxValleyWinterChallengeTrailSeries2

10K: https://runsignup.com/Race/IL/StCharles/FoxValleyWinterChallengeTrailSeries3

JOIN OUR PACK!

Every year, thousands of dogs, cats, small mammals and wildlife count on Anderson Humane for a second chance. We work tirelessly to provide life-changing care and support these animals with food, shelter, medical care, and most importantly, the love and respect they deserve. In 2024 we rescued 4000+ domestic and 3000+ wild animals. Our Walk4Animals & 5K helps us continue our commitment to creating a more humane world for animals and the people who love them.

Now you can BE PART OF THE MISSION! Join the purple wave by running in our 5K. Or bring your dog & help make Walk4Animals, a 1.65-mile walk around the Batavia Riverwalk, Anderson Humane's largest fundraiser. The 5K is a timed event. The 1.65 mile Walk is not timed.

Every dollar raised for Walk4Animals ensures Anderson Humane has the resources to care for and protect every animal that comes through our doors. Please consider giving what you can — either through a donation or by joining us and helping us raise money for this important cause.

Walkers: Raise $100 and earn the official 2026 W4A & 5K t-shirt! T-Shirt included in 5K registration.

Your support today will help make second chances possible for the animals that need us most. Together, we can make happy new beginnings possible! Thank you for your kindness and generosity. Don't forget to wear your purple!

5K Day-of Registration is $60.

Pre-race packet pick-up will be announced shortly. Day of packet pickup opens 6:45 a.m. on race day.

Walk4Animals & 5K Begins/Ends at: Batavia Riverwalk, 100 N. Island Avenue, Batavia, IL 60510

Want to magnify your fundraising or thinking of starting a team? Check out our Team Leader Quick Start Guide.

UNABLE TO ATTEND?

No worries! Walk or run in your own neighborhood on Walk Day or stay home and gather donations to help Anderson Humane. Or don't walk at all and consider donating to a team or participant.

5K AWARDS

Medals will be awarded to the 1st & 2nd Men & Women 5K participants in these categories:

14 & Under, 15-24, 25-34, 35-44, 45-54, 55-64, 65 and over

Rotolo Middle School National Junior Honor Society are hosting a Color Fun Run 5K on May 9th, 2025 at 9:00 AM. The proceeds of this event will go to Batavia United Way and to better the programs of National Junior Honor Society at Rotolo.

Come join us for a colorful and fun filled run at Rotolo!

Sign-up before April 24th to be guaranteed a race t-shirt.

Packet Pick-Up at Rotolo Middle School:

Friday, May 8th from 3 - 4 PM

Saturday, May 9th from 7:30 AM - 8:45 AM

Color Fun Run Route