LYNNWOOD—Lace up your shoes, grab your spookiest costume, and gather your crew. The 18th Annual Monster Mad Dash 5K on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at Lake Ballinger in Mountlake Terrace is more than a race—it’s a joyful community celebration that directly supports children across the Edmonds School District.
This family-friendly event welcomes everyone: runners, walkers, strollers, rollers, and even four-legged friends. Registration opens at 8:00 a.m., runners start at 9:00 a.m., and walkers, strollers, and pets follow at 9:15 a.m. Expect a costume contest with prizes for participants and pets, outdoor games, a Kid Zone hosted by Dave & Buster’s, and Battle of the Bands at 9:30 a.m. The scenic two-lap course around beautiful Lake Ballinger is timed via the Strava app if you want official results.
Why This Dash Matters
The Foundation for Edmonds School District has spent more than 40 years bridging gaps so every student has the resources to learn, thrive, and contribute to the community. Funds from the Monster Mad Dash support classroom grants, school activities, nutrition programs through the Nourishing Network, early learning, scholarships, career-connected experiences, arts programs, and family support services. These investments reach more than 20,000 students across 35 schools in Lynnwood, Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, Brier, Bothell, and surrounding areas.
School teams make an even bigger impact. Groups of 20 or more participants can earn a share of the net proceeds returned directly to their school. In past years the event has drawn over 1,300 participants and dozens of teams, raising tens of thousands of dollars that schools used for after-school classes, clubs, assemblies, playground equipment, field trips, STEM activities, and wellness programs.
How to Join the Fun
- Register now at foundationesd.org/5k or the official registration page. Fees are $40 for adults 19+, $20 for youth 13–18, $10 for children 12 and under, and $40 for virtual runners. Prices increase on October 2.
- Form or join a team—especially a school team. Rally classmates, teachers, parents, neighbors, and coworkers.
- Wear your favorite costume. Creativity is celebrated and prizes await.
- Bring your dog. Pets are welcome and can compete in the costume contest too.
- Packet pickup is Friday, October 2, from 4–7 p.m. at the Edmonds School District office, or on race morning from 8–9 a.m. at the park.
- Parking is limited, so carpool or use the shuttle from the Mountlake Terrace Transit Center.
Share the excitement. Check out community posts (including this one: facebook.com/share/p/1EaSKSYd82/) and invite others. Whether you’re chasing a personal best, pushing a stroller, or just showing up in a silly outfit with friends, every participant helps kids in our schools.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
