RUN(317) will be wrapping up their 11th season this month. Each year’s races feature a 5K walk or run, followed by a post-race party that includes refreshments, entertainment and community partners.
Races take place on Thursday nights at five different Indianapolis-area locations, with the intent of increasing exposure to various places around the city. “This series was created for participants to experience different areas in the 317 area code that they might not know about,” says Jennifer Hampton, RUN(317) organizer. “This gives them a reason to check out a new side of town and get to know the community and business in that area. We love being able to highlight our wonderful city.”
RUN(317) offers a unique fitness experience where runners hit the pavement and then stay for socializing. Every race is followed by a post-race party, where participants are invited to celebrate and explore the local area. “Our post-race party is really fun and exciting,” Hampton says. “We have a live DJ, street dancing, vendors and, of course, all participants get two free beers, wine or seltzers. We always say come for the run/walk and stay for the fun.”
Race locations this year have included several popular spots such as Fountain Square, 16 Tech, Mass Ave, Carmel’s Village of WestClay and Speedway. 16 Tech was a new location for this season and offered runners a fresh route and post-race space. “This is a super cool up-and-coming tech area on the west side of town,” Hampton says. “16 Tech was amazing to work with. They kept the AMP open later so race participants could go inside after the race and eat or have a drink. They also had free parking for us in their garage.”
RUN(317) is looking forward to a 12th season in 2025 and preparing for huge numbers, as this year’s races are only just beginning to fill to capacity since being diminished by COVID-related shutdowns. Numbers continue to normalize with approximately 2,000 racers in attendance for each event. “It is so great to see running back,” Hampton says. “We are hitting our pre-COVID numbers and exceeding them. Each race this year was a sellout. We work hard to make these Thursday night 5K run/walks fun for everyone.”
Runs also feature a charity sponsor, supported by proceeds. In addition to Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Kids’ Voice of Indiana, Girls on the Run and Lions International, Paws & Think joined the lineup of sponsors this year for the August 29 run in Carmel’s Village of WestClay. “They brought dogs to the race and had them at their booth,” Hampton says. “This was a popular booth at the post-race party.”
Participants can sign up for single events or purchase a group package of three or six races, with savings for buying access to multiple events. Each purchase includes a 0.0317 sticker, race bib, Penn Station coupon, and two free alcoholic beverages or soft drinks. Purchasing all five events also comes with a bonus T-shirt. Hampton stresses that participants do not need to be serious runners, and all are welcome to join at their own pace. “You do not have to be a runner to do this event,” Hampton says. “We have lots of walkers and people of all ages and fitness levels.”
Events begin at 7 p.m. and attendees are encouraged to arrive between 5:30 p.m. and 6:45 p.m. on race day to pick up their packet. Alternatively, packets can be acquired at the Athletic Annex in Nora the day prior to the race between 2 p.m and 6 p.m. Water stations are located at the halfway point and finish line, and awards are given to the top three male and female participants. Kids and strollers are encouraged. Emails are sent with pre-race instructions before each event.
Runner’s clubs, local groups, and groups of friends are encouraged to take part in the Race Groups. Discounts are also offered under the corporate wellness program to encourage employee participation.
Donations to RUN(317) will go directly towards the current charity, and can be made online on their Donate page. Volunteers are always needed to help assist with logistics, including water handouts, assistance with route management and post-race activities.
Registration for the 2025 season will open next year at the end of February. Interested parties are invited to follow RUN(317) on social media, or visit run317.com for updates.
