Those looking to get a little active during homecoming celebrations have the opportunity to participate in NIU’s Homecoming 5K Run/Walk.

The event is scheduled for 7:45 a.m. Oct. 15.

“We’re trying to provide a healthy, fun activity in the early morning for those that like to jog or run or even have that as a goal,” said Campus Recreation Director Sandi Carlisle.

The Recreation Center will host the homecoming run for the second year. Carlisle said there were 103 participants last year.

“We open up it to everyone,” Carlisle said, “This year we sent information to the alumni newsletter and also offer it to the local community because they’re always looking for good things to do. Homecoming is really about bringing everyone together within the community, so we try to do that.”

Carlisle said prospective participants can register by either going to the Rec and registering at the computer kiosks in the lobby, or they can go to the Rec’s website and pay with a credit card.

The cost now until Oct. 12 is $20, which includes a dry-fit T-shirt and a goodie bag. Race-day registration is $25.

“We are donating to the goodie bags and donating money to the event,” said Tobie DePauw, a manager at the North Central Cyclery, 534 E. Lincoln Highway. “We also may have some participants running.”

Many sponsors from the area offer funds and items for goodie bags. The goodie bags will include water bottles, pedometers, key chains, sun glasses and more, Carlisle said.

“As a physical therapy establishment, we’re pretty big on the general fitness, well-being and health of the community,” said Joe Themig, exercise specialist at Northern Rehab Physical Therapy Specialists, 232 W. Lincoln Highway. “The 5K is something that helps students get involved in athletic and physical activity and hopefully in the end, ends up keeping them healthier and builds life skills in terms of physical activity.”

The race starts at the Rec, near the intersection of Annie Glidden and Lucinda roads, continues around the Huskie Football Stadium, Convocation Center, Northern View Community, then back to the Rec.

Race-day registration starts at 6 a.m. and check-in starts at 6:30 a.m. Oct. 15 at the Rec. For more information, visit the Rec’s website at niu.edu/recservices/homecoming5k.shtml.