Rockford, IL ­­– The Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is excited to welcome back its much-anticipated Dasher Dash 5K. Last year, runners competed virtually but will now cross the finish line in person for this year’s race. The Dasher Dash will begin at a new time, 12 noon, on the day of Stroll on State, presented by Illinois Bank & Trust, on Saturday, November 27, 2021.  

The race will take place on a new course this year that moves through the core area of the Stroll on State grounds along E. State, Madison and Wyman Streets in downtown Rockford. The new race route will allow runners and spectators a sneak peek of the festival grounds, decorated for the holidays and Stroll on State.  

New Post-Race Party: Once runners make their way through this scenic route and cross the finish line, they will be greeted at the finish line with a post-race party at Davis Park. The certified course was created with all skill levels in mind. Awards for top overall, top masters and first through third place in each age group, along with finisher medals for each participant, will be awarded. 

Registration is open now and is $35 for adults and $20 for kids 12 and under. The entry fee includes an online processing fee and race swag, including a race shirt. Registration closes on Thursday, November 25 at 11:59 p.m. There will be no race day registration. Runners interested in participating can register online at www.strollonstate.com.

While downtown, racers and spectators are encouraged to stop into a few retail shops to celebrate Small Business Saturday and then stay in the area for the kick-off of Stroll on State.

“We introduced Dasher Dash in 2017 and had no idea how much it would grow in popularity,” said Kristen Paul, RACVB Destination Development Director. “We are thrilled to have the event back in-person and to be featuring a new race route through the Stroll event footprint. The post-race party in Davis Park will be a new, fun feature and the perfect way to kick off the day’s celebrations once competitors are done running.” 

New Race Partner: RACVB is pleased to announce a new race production partnership with Rock River Multi Sport. “Rock River Multisport is pleased to offer race registration and coordinate sign-up details as well as overall race-day management this year for Dasher Dash,” said Tim Goodwin, the all-volunteer group’s vice president. “We are looking forward to seeing the downtown streets filled with runners and creating another set of lasting memories in the Rockford region.”

Packet pickup prior to race day will take place at Runner’s Image, a locally owned running store, at 219 E. State St. in downtown Rockford, with dates announced on the race registration page. 

For more information about Stroll on State or Dasher Dash or to sign up to be a volunteer, visit www.strollonstate.com.


About RACVB: RACVB is responsible for promoting the Rockford region as an attractive travel destination and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to live and work. Through the impact of travel, RACVB strengthens the economic position of the region and provides opportunities for people in our communities. www.gorockford.com 

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FOR MORE INFORMATION:  Dan Obert, RACVB Marketing & Communications Manager: 815.963.8111 or dobert@gorockford.com