One of the Midwest’s Favorite Halloween Runs Returns This October

Sunshine the Bear
Jul 24
2 min read

Something is stirring beneath the towering trees of Springdale Cemetery...

On Sunday, October 24, 2026, one of Central Illinois’ favorite Halloween traditions returns as runners, walkers, and families gather once again for the Screaming Pumpkin race—an unforgettable evening of costumes, crisp autumn air, and miles of spooky fun in the heart of Peoria.

Whether you dare to run the full marathon or prefer a family-friendly evening walk, there’s a race option for everyone. Participants can choose from:

Full Marathon (26.2-mile Prediction Run)
Half Marathon (13.1-mile Prediction Run)
Marathon Relay (26.2-mile Prediction Run for teams of four)
6.55-Mile Race (the classic spooky 10K-ish experience)
2-Mile Walk or Run (a family-friendly option for all ages)
Virtual Run (participants get a t-shirt and a medal)

The iconic race begins at Lower Glen Oak Park and winds through the Springdale Cemetery. Prediction Run participants may begin the course at 4:00 p.m., while the 6.55-mile and 2-mile races both start at 6:00 p.m. The course remains open until 10:00 p.m. Free parking is available at Woodruff High School, and spectators are always welcome at no cost. Costumes are highly encouraged, and face painters will be on site to help complete your Halloween look!

Along the way, you’ll find plenty to enjoy beyond the race itself. Every registered participant receives a commemorative long-sleeve race shirt and a meal ticket redeemable for the food truck, which will also be serving additional food for spectators throughout the evening. Full and half marathon participants will also receive an exclusive Yellow Bear Foundation quarter-zip, and finishers who cross the finish line will earn a commemorative finisher medal.

Here are some highlights from years past!

If you’ve been thinking about signing up, now is the time. Registration prices increase on August 5th, so register today to lock in the current rate before prices go up.

Beyond the spooky fun, the Screaming Pumpkin is an opportunity to support the mission of the Yellow Bear Foundation. Every registration helps raise awareness of primary immunodeficiency, expand access to specialized care, support patients and families, and advance research for those living with rare immune disorders.

Gather your friends, plan your costumes, and dare to run one of the Midwest’s most memorable Halloween events. Find more details and register here before prices increase on August 5th.

We’ll see you at the starting line... if you dare!