2026 Columbus Cookie Run and Walk

The 2026 Columbus Cookie Run and Walk will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, in Columbus, OH, with all race distances starting and finishing at Wolfe Park. The event is held on paved surfaces and trails, offering a consistent and accessible course for runners and walkers of all ages and abilities. On the day of the event, Columbus is expected to experience cold weather, with temperatures ranging between 20°F and 30°F and a chance of light snow. Participants can expect a festive and community-oriented atmosphere, with a focus on fun, fitness, and giving back to the Alzheimer's Association Central Ohio Chapter. The event includes multiple race distances, finisher medals, cookies, and a variety of swag items for in-person participants.

What distances are available for this event?

• →1 Mile, 5K, and 10K races
• →Kids Cookie Dash (1/4 mile)
• →Virtual 1 Mile, 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and Kids Cookie Dash

What are the start times for each race distance?

• →Kids Cookie Dash (1/4 mile): 10:00 AM EST
• →1 Mile, 5K, and 10K: 10:15 AM EST
• →Virtual races: Can be completed anytime before April 1, 2026

How much does registration cost?

• →1 Mile & 5K: $49.99 (price increases after February 23, 2026)
• →10K: $59.99 (price increases after February 23, 2026)
• →Kids Dash (With Swag): $34.99
• →Kids Dash (No Swag): $5.00
• →Virtual Races: $49.99

What is included in the race packet?

• →Finisher medal for 1 Mile, 5K, and 10K participants
• →Digital finisher certificate for 1 Mile, 5K, and 10K
• →Freshly baked cookie at the finish line for all participants, including the Kids Dash
• →Reusable cookie run mug for 1 Mile, 5K, and 10K (in-person only, not mailed for virtual racers)

Are there awards or results posted for participants?

• →Age group results are posted for participants ranging from 9 and under to 90+
• →There is no awards ceremony
• →Timing is chip-based, and bibs must be worn visibly on the front of the chest for accurate timing

What are the course details for each race?

• →10K: Extends to Peace Hall on Ohio Dominican University's East Campus, with an aid station located there
• →5K: Extends to Nelson Park, with an aid station located there
• →1 Mile and Kids Dash: Shorter loops originating from Wolfe Park
• →Interactive course maps are available via MapMyRun and Google Maps

What is the policy for weather conditions during the event?

• →The event runs rain, snow, or shine
• →Delays may occur only for lightning or dangerous conditions

What are the rules and guidelines for participants?

• →Dogs are allowed, provided they are on a leash and water bowls are available at the finish line
• →Strollers are permitted
• →Headphones are allowed, but bone-conduction headphones are recommended for safety awareness

When and where can race packets be picked up?

• →Early packet pickup: Friday, February 27, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Road Runner Sports, Hilliard, OH
• →Race day packet pickup: Saturday, February 28, starting at 9:15 AM at Wolfe Park, Columbus, OH
• →Race day registration is available via smartphone link on event morning

How can virtual participants submit their results?

• →Virtual race participants must enter their times online by April 1, 2026
• →Swag for virtual participants is mailed if registered by February 18, 2026; the mug is not included in mailed packets

What is the charity beneficiary for the event?

• →The Alzheimer's Association Central Ohio Chapter benefits from the event

Are there any specific rules for the Kids Cookie Dash?

• →The Kids Cookie Dash is a 1/4 mile race
• →Participants receive a cookie and swag, with options for those with or without swag
• →The race starts at 10:00 AM EST