A Run So Fun It's SCARY!
- amitoz8
- Oct 23
- 2 min read
The Halloween Races, presented by Tourism Hamilton and organized by VR PRO Inc., are back on Saturday, October 25!
This family-friendly event invites runners, walkers, and costume lovers of all ages to join the fun, whether participating in the 5K, 10K, or the Spooky 1K. Participants are encouraged to come dressed in their best Halloween costumes for a morning filled with energy, and fun!
Event Details
WHAT: Halloween 5K, 10K, and Kids 1K Races (Run or Walk)
WHEN: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Opening Ceremony: 9:40 AM
1K Start: 10:00 AM
5K & 10K Start: 10:30 AM
WHERE: Discovery Centre, Waterfront Shores, Hamilton, ON
WHO: VR PRO Inc., with support from Tourism Hamilton
WHY: To celebrate Halloween with a spirited community event that brings locals and visitors together on Hamilton’s scenic waterfront. The race not only promotes fitness and festive fun but also showcases the city as a vibrant destination for sports and tourism.
Medals, Race Kits & over $1000 in Prizes!
All participants will receive a Frankenstein-themed medal that lights up and growls, plus a race kit including Halloween socks, gloves, treat bag and other themed goodies.Over $1,000 in prizes including registration draws, costume contests, and age-group awards for top finishers!
Top 3 finishers in each 10K age group will receive a trophy along with StayAbove Nutrition’s Restore 9 supplement.
Top 4 finishers in each 5K age group will receive trophies.
The first 200 registered 10K runners will receive a free Omega-3 supplement from StayAbove Nutrition.
Community Impact
The Halloween Race supports Hamilton-area charities:
Hamilton Food Share (non-perishable food donations accepted on site)
Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation: McMaster Children’s Hospital: Through the 1K Event- The funds raised will help fund life-saving and crucial equipment in the NICU, such as feeding pumps. By participating, runners help strengthen the community while enjoying a memorable morning by the water.
Quotes
Kelly Arnott
Co-Founder & Race Director, VR PRO Inc.
“This event is one of the most creative on our race calendar. We see everything from monsters, witches, and superheroes to entire families running in themed costumes, it’s such a fun sight along the waterfront. There aren’t many Halloween races like this around, and with Tourism Hamilton’s support, we’re thrilled to showcase the city’s beautiful waterfront and Halloween spirit.”
Amitoz Bhattal
Director of Marketing, VR PRO Inc.
“Halloween seems to get bigger every year, and Kelly always jokes that it’s going to be bigger than Christmas one day, and honestly, I don’t see why not. It’s become such a creative celebration. With pop culture and people from all backgrounds joining in, it’s not just about being scary anymore. You can show off your personality, be funny, or completely original and then you get to run a race in costume by the waterfront. It doesn’t get better than that.”
Information Links
About VR PRO Inc.
VR PRO Inc. hosts some of Canada’s most beloved running events, including the Chilly Half Marathon, All Santa Race, Butter Tart Festival Race, Canada Day Races, and Summer Shores 5K/8K. They have raised over $3.9 million for local charities.



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