
From the Organizer
We are thrilled to announce our 2nd Annual Badge of Hope Haunted 5K race, where every step you take will make a difference! This race is hosted by the Auburndale Police Department at Camp Margaritaville. This spooky and exciting race will take place on September 26, 2026, at Camp Margaritaville, offering a unique blend of fitness and Halloween fun. Your participation will directly support the local area breast cancer patients. Additionally, proceeds will benefit our local Police Explorers program, nurturing the next generation of law enforcement professionals and strengthening community bonds.
The event kicks off with registration confirmation tables opening at 5PM, giving you plenty of time to get ready for the main event and pick up any remaining packets. At 7PM, runners will embark on a haunting 5K course, designed to challenge and excite participants of all age levels. But the fun doesn't end at the finish line! Post-race festivities will include an awards ceremony and a spine-tingling costume contest.
We encourage all participants to come dressed in their favorite and spookiest costumes, as you'll have the chance to showcase your creativity and potentially win prizes. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a first-time participant, this event promises a memorable experience for everyone involved.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2026 - EARLY PACKET PICKUP - 4-6 PM
Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Cabana Cabins in Auburndale, FL!
361 Denton Ave, Auburndale, FL 33823
(On the front porch of the large pavilion to the left of the guard house as you enter the gates.)
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2026 - RACE DAY
Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Cabana Cabins in Auburndale, FL!
361 Denton Ave, Auburndale, FL 33823
• 5:00 PM - Day of Race Packet Pickup and Registration!
(On the front porch of the large pavilion to the left of the guard house as you enter the gates.)
• 7:00 PM - 5k Race Starts (Chip Timed)
• 7:03 PM - Mummy Mile - Fun Run Walk (Not Timed)
• 8:15 PM - Approx. time of Awards
• 8:00-10:00 PM - After Party and Costume Contest!
Family & friends are welcome to cheer you on & join in for the after party!
SHIRTS! Don’t wait to register!!!
Shirts are guaranteed if pre-registered before September 6, 2026. After this date, the shirts will be available while supplies last.
AWARDS!
Overall Male and Female
Masters Male and Female (40+)
Grand Masters Male and Female (50+)
Age Group Awards: 5 Year Age Groups - Top 3 Male and Female
(0-9, 10-14, 15-19, 20-24 up to 85+)
Vendor and Sponsorship opportunities available. Contact Allison at ahuffman@auburndalefl.com
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
90°
Typical Low
73°
Chance of Rain
40%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Winter Haven Gilbert Ap, 4 mi from the venue.
Host City
City Elevation
144 ft
Nearest Airport
LAL
Lakeland Linder International Airport · 14 mi
Major Hub
MCO
Orlando International Airport · 39 mi
Time Zone
Eastern Time
From Endurance Grid
Line up lodging and travel early to lock in your race weekend.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Badge of Hope Haunted 5K, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
101
Days to train
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From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it’s the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Badge of Hope Haunted 5K
Sep 26, 2026