2026 Run with the Badges

The 2026 Run with the Badges 5K Glow Run takes place on Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 9:00 PM EDT in Downtown Dallas, Georgia, USA. Hosted by the City of Dallas, this nighttime 5K glow run is the biggest fundraising event of the year for Paulding Public Safety Appreciation, Inc., a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to raising money, awareness, and support for members of public safety and their families in Paulding County.

Event Logistics and Participant Information:

• Gates Open: 5:00 PM with a vendor display including music, activities, and local exhibitors.
• Same-Day Registration: Available until approximately 8:30 PM on event day.
• Opening Ceremonies: Begin at 8:15 PM with a presentation of the flag by the Paulding County Honor Guard.
• Race Start: Promptly at 9:00 PM.
• Included for Runners: Custom Run with the Badges 5K Glow Run t-shirt, a swag bag filled with goodies from local vendors and sponsors, and a custom glow-in-the-dark finisher medal.
• Age Group Awards: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place medals for top three male and female finishers in each age group (10 & under, 11-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70 & over).
• Overall Awards: Custom award for the 1st place overall male and female winner.
• T-Shirt Only Option: Available for those who do not wish to run but still want to support and receive a t-shirt – pre-order via the organization's website.
• Fundraising Impact: In 2025, Paulding Public Safety Appreciation, Inc. provided more than $75,000 in support to local public safety families, including sponsoring 7 families for Christmas, hosting 5 fundraisers for families facing hardship, and other forms of assistance. The event has raised $694.85 toward its current goal (93% raised).
• Sponsors: Coosa Valley Credit Union, Our Local Heroes, and Local Realty.

Route and Atmosphere:

• Scenic Highlights: The 5K course winds through Downtown Dallas, Georgia, with a glowing, festive nighttime atmosphere.
• Glow Run Theme: A nighttime race featuring glow-in-the-dark elements, custom glow medals, and a vibrant, illuminated course.
• Family-Friendly: Age-group awards for runners as young as 10 & under make this an inclusive event for families.
• Community & First Responder Support: This event raises awareness and funds for public safety personnel and their families during times of need. Paulding Public Safety Appreciation, Inc. supports law enforcement, fire, EMS, and other first responders in Paulding County.
• Pre-Race Festivities: Vendor displays, music, activities, and a flag presentation create a festival atmosphere before the 9:00 PM race start.
• Spectator Experience: Spectators can enjoy the vendor area, music, and cheer on glowing runners as they pass through downtown Dallas.

The 2026 Run with the Badges 5K Glow Run in Downtown Dallas, Georgia, brings the community together for a glowing nighttime 5K – supporting public safety personnel and their families through Paulding Public Safety Appreciation, Inc.