Batavia United Way Bat Race 5K & 10K

Batavia United Way is pleased to announce the 13th annual Bat Race 5K/10K on October 24, 2026, beginning at River and State Street in downtown Batavia at 8:15 a.m. for the 10K, 8:30 a.m. for the 5K, and 9:30 a.m. for the kids' run. This chip-timed event along the beautiful Fox River Bike Path has drawn runners and walkers to our lovely town from 30 surrounding zip codes. 

This event has something for all ability levels, whether you are a walker or a runner: 5K walk or run, 10K run, and Kids Fun Run. The first 600 5K/10K registrants are guaranteed a T-shirt and swag bag.

Race awards will be given to the Top 3 Male & Top 3 Female Overall Finishers for both the 5K and 10K. While there are no age group awards, results will show your placement in 5 year age groups so you can compare your time to others. All participants will receive a finishing medal and certificate. 

Packet pick-up: Runners can pick up their packets ahead of time on Thursday, October 22 from 2 pm to 7 pm at Sturdy Shelter Brewing (10 Shumway Ave. Batavia, IL) or at race location on the morning of the race starting at 7 am at the tent on State St. and N. River Rd.     

Race day brings all sorts of fun - from snacks, music, costumes, & more! 

What's a Halloween-themed race without costumes?! We encourage (but not require) you to wear costumes. We will be awarding prizes in various categories (e.g., Best Group Costume, Best Duo Costume, Best Adult Male Costume, Best Adult Female Costume, Best Child Costume) for those who want to participate in the costume contest. You can register at the information booth the morning of the race to be eligible for prizes.

We love our furry friends, but due to our liability insurance, we ask that you please leave your pup at home. Strollers are welcome but should begin at the back of the pack for the safety of our runners.  

Race Day Etiquette:  To help everyone have a safe and enjoyable experience, please line up according to your expected pace. If you’re planning to run at a faster pace or are racing competitively, please position yourself toward the front of the starting area. Children, walkers, strollers, and those planning to enjoy a more relaxed pace are encouraged to line up toward the back. Parents, please help your young runners find an appropriate starting spot rather than gathering at the front of the start line. This allows our competitive runners to get off to a clean start while giving everyone plenty of room to enjoy the race. Most importantly, have fun, be courteous, and give your fellow Bat Racers and others using the public path a little space.

Without supporters like you, we would not be able to provide funding for 25 local programs or run the in-house programs such as our Success-by-6 preschool scholarships, Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Adopt-A-Family holiday program, and more. Thank you and enjoy the festivities!

With gratitude, The Batavia United Way Race Committee