Run for Your Lives Zombie 5K
The annual 5k obstacle course infested with brain-devouring zombies.
Run for Your Lives! Zombie 5K
If you've ever wondered what it would be like to be in a horror film, or a scary video game such as Resident Evil then you are in luck, because now you can actually sign up to be chased by real life zombies. Well not actually real, but real people dressed as zombies, and they definitely motivate you to pick up the pace when they lunge at you!
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Obstacles
The 5 kilometer course is crawling with infected zombies, and along the way runners will encounter both manmade and natural obstacles. Contestants can choose to bypass the obstacles, but doing so also bars them from receiving any special prizes.
Flags = Health
Think of it like the flag belt in flag football. Get your flag snatched off and you’re down. In the Zombie 5K you are given a flag belt and the flags represent your health. When all of your flags are yanked off, you have no life left, and the zombies win. Throughout the course there are health bonuses to watch out for.
Being a Zombie
Obviously, it wouldn’t be the zombie apocalypse without zombies! For $25 you get the Zombie Package and you can be a zombie. There are different types of zombies...
- Runners
- Walkers
- Climbers
- Crawlers
Dates & Locations
All runners and zombies must be at least 14 years of age to participate in these events
Each type of zombie has a different role they play and a strict set of rules he or she must abide by.
Also included with the $25 Zombie Package is free makeup done the day of the event. Your own costumes are encouraged, but event organizers do advise that costumes must be age appropriate.
Dates & Locations
- Toronto, Canada – September 22, 2012
- Southern California – October 20 – 21, 2012
- Baltimore, Maryland - October 27 – 28, 2012
- Orlando, Florida – November 17, 2012
- Austin, Texas - December 15, 2012
Prices
Prices depend upon what you want to do, and what time you buy them. The earlier you buy your tickets, the better price you will get!
- Runners $77 - $87
- Zombies $25 (Sells out fast)
- Spectators $32 - $40
What To Bring
What You’ll Need To Survive
- An official form of identification (license, passport, photo ID, etc) or a parent/guardian if you are a minor. We will not be able to let you into the event otherwise.
- Heart (preferably your own, still beating).
- Cash for food, beer and zombie gear (ATMs will be available on site).
- One (1) factory sealed water bottle, sports drink, or energy drink up to 1 liter in size.
- You will be covered in mud, zombie guts, body parts, and other apocalyptic liquids after the race so bring a towel and change of clothing (especially socks and clean shoes to change into). We will have a “decontamination zone” and changing rooms at the event so you can clean off and enjoy yourself.
- Bring blankets and warm gear if you plan on camping or staying late into the night.
- Feel free to bring a lawn chair if you want to stick around and catch some of our live entertainment.
- Check the weather before the event to make sure you are prepared (i.e. umbrellas, warm gear, cold gear, wet gear, etc.).
- Bring $10 cash for parking and please have cash ready. We highly recommend your car-pool.
What You Can Live Without For A Day
- Outside food and unapproved beverages. Approved beverages include one factory sealed water bottle, sports drink, or energy drink up to 1 liter in size.
- Any and all weapons.
- Pets. Even if they’re trained to hunt zombies.
Gear Check
There will be a Gear Check Station so you can store any personal belongings with a RFYL staff member while you’re running for your life. The Gear Check Station will close promptly at 7 PM.
FAQ
What do I need to bring on race day?
- Photo ID
- Parent/legal guardian (only if you are under 18)
What do I get for being a zombie?
- Professional Zombie Transformation
- Free race on event day
- Unique Zombie T-Shirt
- Free Parking
- Apocalypse Pass
- Camping Pass
- One free beverage (includes beer)
- Free snacks and drinks in the Zombie Transformation Center (ZTC)
- A race medal
Does it cost money to be a zombie? If so, why?
Yes, the whole zombie package costs $25. We wanted to improve the overall zombie experience and also ensure zombie attendance while covering our costs. Charging a minimal fee for a unique zombie experience was the best way to achieve that.
When will I be contacted with more information about being a zombie?
All registered zombies will be contacted the week before the event with more detailed information on parking and race day instruction.
Can we come and check out the course prior to race day?
The answer to this question will vary by location. If this is an option then we will notify all registered zombies as soon as we know.
Where do zombies park?
Zombie parking instructions will be sent to you a week before the race.
What time should I arrive at the race?
You should plan to arrive no later than 2 hours before the start of your zombie shift. This will allow enough time for you to travel to the Zombie Transformation Center and receive your full zombie transformation.
How do I ensure that I get grouped with my friends and/or family?
Everyone in the group must put in the same group name where it asks for one on the second page of the registration. You can email us at zombies@runforyourlives.com up to 2 weeks before the event to add or remove anyone from your group.
How old do you have to be to participate as a zombie?
In order to participate as a zombie in a Run For Your Lives event you must be 14 years old by race day.
Do I have to purchase camping in order to camp?
No, you do not. Camping is included in the zombie package. If you accidentally purchase camping then let us know at support@runforyourlives.com with the subject “Zombie Camping”, and we will refund you.
Can I race and be a zombie?
Yes, one of the perks of being a zombie is a free race. You will be given a flag belt but you will not be timed or in the official race results. You will also not be eligible for awards. This is because you already will know the course and the surprises.
Do I have to provide my own makeup and wardrobe?
You do not. We will have a fully staffed makeup and wardrobe team equipped with all the necessary supplies to turn you into a gruesome, horrifying member our Zombie Horde. However, creative costumes are encouraged. At our first event we had zombie brides, clowns, and even a Winnie the Pooh. What can you come up with?
Can I carry a weapon?
Nope.
Can I tackle, eat, bite, or hit runners?
Only if you want to kicked out of the event. You will just have to suppress your hunger for brains for a few hours on race day.
I’ve already signed up to race but now I want to be a zombie… What do I do?
Sorry, we are not offering refunds for registered runners interested in participating as zombies. However, you can transfer your ticket to a friend, family member, or acquaintance.
What is the difference between a Stumbler zombie and a Chaser zombie?
Stumbler zombies are slow and Chaser zombies are fast, simple enough. Stumblers are not allowed to run and chase down runners, they must stumble, crawl, shuffle, drag, or perform any other type of slow movement in order to horrify runners and take their flags. Chaser zombies are allowed to run and chase down runners.
What happens if I don’t properly fulfill my zombie responsibilities?
You will not receive all of the awesome zombie perks such as a T-Shirt, Free Camping, Free Beer, etc.
What is the ZTC?
The ZTC is the Zombie Transformation Center. This is where you will undergo your full zombie transformation which includes wardrobe, make up and zombie training. When you leave the ZTC you will officially be a member of our Zombie Horde.
Can I dress up in a costume?
For sure! Costumes are encouraged; just make sure it is appropriate for all ages. We may even have a zombie costume contest at the end of the day where you can win some prizes.
How many zombies will be in each shift?
This is top-secret information. You will find out on race day but until then we want to keep those tasty humans as clueless as possible.
Can I bring outside food or drink?
No, you cannot. We will provide you with snacks and drinks in the ZTC and you will be given water on the course. Plus you get a free beer after your shift. If you are looking for a full meal then you may want to bring some extra cash or a credit card.
Will I get dirty as a zombie?
Probably. Things get pretty messy during an apocalypse.
Zombie Race Photos
Even the Ninja Turtles made an appearance!
Zombie kids! Who woulda thought baby zombies would be lurking around? Good reason to get out those Halloween costumes!
Promo girl?
This looks like the race start / finish
