Annual run through Mohegan Park brings music, movement, and mental health awareness to Norwich
NORWICH, Conn. —November 3, 2025. More than 300 people of all ages are expected to gather at Kelly Middle School on Dec. 6, 2025, and run through scenic Mohegan Park along the Spaulding Lake Path to raise awareness for mental health and support Reliance Health, Inc. during the 13th annual Winterfest 5K.
The family-friendly event includes a free Fit Kids Run at 9:30 a.m., a 5K run/walk at 10 a.m., and a post-race party from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the Kelly Middle School gymnasium. The celebration will feature awards, music and family activities.
Runners will receive a tri-blend long-sleeve shirt, a custom finisher medal, grab-and-go snacks, a draw-string bag with community swag, and commemorative awards for the top three finishers in each division.
Participants can register online through the Hartford Marathon Foundation website until 30 minutes before the race begins. In-person registration will be available at packet pickup from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at Kelly Middle School if space allows. Those unable to make it on race day are invited to join the virtual option.
Reliance Health, Inc. will accept donations of household cleaning supplies and personal hygiene products on race day to benefit The Care Cabinet – a community-driven initiative dedicated to supporting individuals in need by providing essential hygiene products not covered by SNAP benefits. at Reliance Health.
The Winterfest 5K is part of the Sleigh the Ks Holiday Challenge through the Hartford Marathon Foundation, which also includes the virtual 12Ks of Christmas challenge (Dec. 1–12) and the CLA Blue Back Mitten Run 5K in West Hartford on Dec. 7. Participants who complete all events will receive swag from each race and a Sleigh the Ks ornament.
The race is put on in partnership with the Hartford Marathon Foundation and made possible thanks to sponsorships from our fellow community members, along with safety support from the Norwich Police Department and the American Ambulance Service. Proceeds benefit Reliance Health, Inc.
Reliance Health, Inc. is an award-winning nonprofit that provides mental health support to more than 1,000 disadvantaged community members each year across Eastern Connecticut. The organization believes stronger communities are built on mental wellness and helps members build life skills, find and maintain stable housing, and pursue education and employment goals.