Spooky Schuylkill 5K: A Record-Breaking Year of Fun, Fitness, and Fundraising for a Stronger Community
The 12th Annual Spooky Schuylkill 5K was a record-breaking success, with over 225 participants coming together for a day of fun, fitness, and fundraising to support a cause that’s making a difference in Schuylkill County. This year’s event drew an enthusiastic crowd of runners, walkers, and volunteers who all had one thing in common: a commitment to improving their community.
A Growing Tradition in Schuylkill
Over the past 12 years, the Spooky Schuylkill 5K has become a beloved fall tradition, and this year’s turnout proved just how much the event has grown. What started as a small neighborhood fundraiser has now become a vibrant community event that attracts participants of all ages and abilities from across the county and beyond. Whether you were a seasoned runner aiming for a new personal best, a family enjoying a leisurely walk, or a first-time participant, the Spooky Schuylkill 5K had something for everyone.
The event’s scenic course took participants along the Landingville portion of the Schuylkill River Trail, showcasing the area’s natural beauty and vibrant fall colors. Alongside the race, there was the annual costume contest and runner award, all designed to create a fun and welcoming atmosphere for participants and spectators alike.
A Record-Breaking Turnout
This year’s race saw a record number participants with over 225 registered, far surpassing previous years and marking a new milestone in the event’s history. The growing participation reflects the community’s increasing engagement and excitement around the Spooky Schuylkill 5K, as well as the event’s growing impact on local initiatives (like Healthy Schuylkill Communities). The record turnout also demonstrated the tremendous support from families, friends, neighbors, and local businesses, all of whom came together to support the race and its mission.
Participants embraced the Halloween spirit, showing up in creative and fun costumes that added an extra layer of excitement to the day. From spooky ghosts and witches to clever pop culture references, the costume contest was a highlight, with participants competing for prizes through Facebook votes, while spreading smiles along the course.
Supporting Schuylkill Connects: Building Stronger Communities
The funds raised by this year’s Spooky Schuylkill 5K will go directly to support the mission of Schuylkill Connects, an organization dedicated to developing connections between communities, organizations, and resources to create a stronger, more unified Schuylkill County.
Schuylkill Connects works tirelessly to foster collaboration, drive local initiatives, and support the development of essential infrastructure that enhances quality of life for everyone in the region. From improving access to education and healthcare to supporting local businesses and environmental initiatives, Schuylkill Connects is committed to ensuring that every corner of the county thrives.
“We are deeply grateful for the support we’ve received from the Spooky Schuylkill 5K participants, sponsors, and volunteers,” said Mandy Fitzpatrick, Executive Director. “This event not only brought our community together in a fun and active way, but it also directly supports our efforts to create lasting, positive change throughout Schuylkill County. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected community.”
A Day of Fun and Fitness In Schuylkill County
While the main event was the 5K race itself, the Spooky Schuylkill 5K offered something for everyone. Whether participants were running to beat their personal best or simply enjoying a walk along the scenic route, the event was filled with energy and excitement from start to finish. Volunteers were stationed throughout the course to cheer on runners and walkers, ensuring everyone felt supported and encouraged.
The festive atmosphere continued after the race, with the race awards; aluminum plaques donated for the third year by Hydro. The event’s costume contest provided opportunities for attendees showcase their creative costumes through photos uploaded on to Facebook, further highlighting their costumes, raising awareness for Schuylkill Connects’ mission and providing engagement opportunities with people new and old to Connects.
A Big Thank You to Our Sponsors and Volunteers
The success of this year’s Spooky Schuylkill 5K would not have been possible without the generous support of local sponsors and the hard work of volunteers. Their dedication helped ensure that the event ran smoothly and that all proceeds went toward supporting the important work of Schuylkill Connects.
Main Sponsors: Lehigh Valley Health Network and Explore Schuylkill
Top Sponsors: Good Shepherd Rehabilitation
Mid Level: Hess Catering, Evans Network of Companies, Hidden River Credit Union, Mauch Chunk Trust Company
Sponsors: Boyers Food Markets, Greater Schuylkill Haven Area Business Association, CACL, Spotts Insurance, Solar Innovations, First Federal Community Bank, and Marshal, Bohorad, Thornburg, Price, and Campion, P.C.
Shout out to Board Member contributions; financial, goods, and time: Jerry Bowman, Gina Gargano, Susan Williams, Mike Shaner, Gary Hess, Seth Hubler, Jennifer Holman and advisory members Tonya Hoppel and Mary Anne Woodward.
Also, we could not have pulled this off without the help and support of many volunteers including Adam and Heather Spotts (on behalf of Landingville Fire Company), Pine Grove Middle School Community Service Club, and many of the Executive Director’s family members (some coming from Delaware to assist!).
We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who participated, donated, volunteered, and supported the event. Your generosity and enthusiasm are what make events like the Spooky Schuylkill 5K possible, and together, we are making a real difference in the future of Schuylkill County.
Looking Ahead to Next Year
With this year’s event setting a new record for attendance and funds raised, organizers are already looking forward to next year’s 13th Annual Spooky Schuylkill 5K, on October 25, 2025. Plans are already underway to make next year’s race even bigger and better, and we can’t wait to see even more participants, costumes, and community spirit in 2025.
Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s Spooky Schuylkill 5K a tremendous success. Together, we’re running, walking, and wheeling to raise funds to create a stronger, more connected Schuylkill County.
Stay tuned to our social media pages for event photos, race results, and updates on next year’s race! @schuylkillconnects on Facebook and Instagram
