Reviving the Holiday Spirit at the It's A Wonderful 5K

The return of the It's A Wonderful 5K has brought more than just runners to the streets. A cherished event for many, the original It's A Wonderful 5K was once embellished with beautiful lights throughout the route as runners completed their race. As years went on with the price of electricity increasing, lights around Blue Spruce Park began to dwindle. As the lights disappeared, so did race participation. With a bit of hope (and a lot of community support!) It's A Wonderful 5K has come back with a renewed purpose: to support local families facing difficult times. The race is more than a friendly competition; it is a celebration of community, kindness, and the power of coming together to make a difference.

The Heart Behind the It's A Wonderful 5K

The It's A Wonderful 5K began as a small race at a local park, inspired by Downtown Indiana's own It's A Wonderful Life Festival. Over time, it grew into a beloved tradition that brought people of all ages and backgrounds together. The event’s name reflects the joy and gratitude that participants feel, especially during the holiday season.

As the community noticed a lack of the festive 5K, many missed the sense of warmth and cheer it fostered. This year, Gingerbread Man Running Co. decided to revive the event with a special focus: raising funds and awareness for a local family that had recently experienced hardship.

How the Event Supports the Local Family

The family benefiting from this year’s 5K hits particularly close to home, as the recipient is the mother-in-law of a GBM employee. While at work on August 27th, 2025, Sammi received a call from her husband. "I'm leaving work. My mom's house is on fire." She knew she couldn't offer any assistance in that moment, but in turning to her team, she knew that there was at least something to be done. Unanimously, the team agreed that the revival was kismet. It was simply meant to be. The funds raised will help cover current costs such as:

• Building materials to rebuild the home and space for Lori's daycare

• Permits and Inspection costs associated with the rebuild

  
  

By participating in the race, runners and supporters contribute directly to easing Lori’s burden. The event also raises awareness about the struggles many families face quietly, encouraging ongoing community support beyond the race day.

Memories Made! This Year’s 5K

The revived It's A Wonderful 5K, this year, had a welcoming and festive atmosphere. With just enough time to organize the 5K, and by staff-sourcing lighting/decorations, here’s what participants and spectators got to experience:

• A scenic 3.11-mile route through Blue Spruce Park

• Free hot coffee and hot chocolate

• Raffle prizes provided by local vendors

• Homemade cookies for sale, made by the recipient and her family

• Opportunities to meet the family and hear their story

  
  

This year, the event was (and will continue to be!) inclusive, encouraging walkers, runners, and volunteers to join in. While awards were given to those who placed in their age groups, staff wanted to ensure the not-so-fast participants had a chance to win something as well. "The Merriest" and "The Brightest" awards added a couple of fun, quirky side quests, encouraging participants to dress in their best holiday garb, adorn their most festive lights, and assist GBM in harboring the cheery spirit.

Runners at the It's A Wonderful 5K starting line as the airhorn blares, symbolizing the community's rallied support.

How You Can Get Involved

Supporting the It's A Wonderful 5K goes beyond race day. Here are ways to contribute and make an impact:

• Donate to the current cause: Lori is still in the process of rebuilding her home-based daycare. She holds a current GoFundMe, and in warmer months offers a lemonade/cookie stand to drum up additional support.

• Spread the word: Share the pictures or videos you took this year! Share the event with friends, family, and social groups to help us make the next one that much better!

• Volunteer: Reach out to Gingerbread Man Running Co. for information on volunteering at the next one! Assist with race setup, water stations, or cheering on participants. This year, we had an awesome community member volunteer to play music for runners on the course! We love to see it!

• Donate: Even if you can’t attend, donations are welcome and go directly to the family.

• Sponsor: Local businesses can sponsor the event a number of different ways including, but not limited to donating funds, raffle prizes, goods, and services.

  
  

Every effort counts. The collective energy of the community can turn this event into a lasting source of support.

The Lasting Impact of Community Events

Events like the It's A Wonderful 5K remind us that community spirit is a powerful force. Events like this provide:

• A platform to support neighbors in need

• Opportunities to build friendships and networks

• A chance to promote health and wellness

• A way to celebrate shared values and traditions

  
  

Reviving this event has reignited hope and shown that even small actions can lead to something meaningful. In the spirit of the holiday season, and in effort to rekindle the warmth and joy our community deserves, the staff at Gingerbread Man Running Co. intend to make the event an annual tradition to keep supporting those in need.

Be sure to check out our Indiana location's Facebook page as staff gathers photos of race day!