The second annual Escape from Fright Nights at the New York State Fairgrounds on Friday, Oct. 25, 6 p.m., is no exception. Participants are encouraged to come dressed for the costume contest prior to the 2.5-mile un-timed fun run, which will start near the entrance at the Fright Nights at the Fair location.
There will be five “fright zones” along the way, however, with characters ready to scare and chase the runners throughout the fairgrounds. “With the costume contest, participants won’t be able to know whether it’s a character or a runner behind them,” says Fleet Feet marketing manager Liz Knickerbocker.
Runners will also be given free entry to the Fright Nights at the Fair experience on Friday, Saturday, Oct. 26, or Sunday, Oct. 27, and receive a postrace embroidered bag (just in time for Halloween) as well as fall-themed refreshments of Beak and Skiff cider and doughnuts and apples from Deer Run Farms.
Last year’s race drew 400 runners and Knickerbocker expects more this year after moving the race from Sunday to Friday, since a fright night run is better in the dark. They also hope they’ll stand out as the only Halloween-themed race just before the holiday.
The event also marks the last major race held by Fleet Feet before their new location opens Friday, Nov. 1, in Clay’s Market Fair North Plaza, 4136 State Route 31. “We are really excited,” Knickerbocker says. “We’ll have a great team up there.”
Entry fee is $30. For more information on the family-friendly Fright Night race, visit fleetfeetsyracuse.com, call 446-1444 or stop into the East Syracuse store at 5800 Bridge St.