Submitted by Allison Behnke
(September 12, 2025) — Every Fall, runners, walkers and families look forward to the traditional Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family Services (HKYFS) Pumpkin Run, a 5k run, walk, and kids’ run in picturesque Higganum. Last year the cool crisp air encouraged participants to embrace the challenge of a beautiful course, while also inviting families and community to paint a pumpkin, create a bracelet, play fall games, win prizes for the best costumes (dogs, too!), enjoy Madison School of Rock’s House Band along the run, and celebrate with each other. This is truly a community event supported by local partners embracing what it means to be “HK.”
This year, the 32nd Annual Pumpkin Run will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2025 beginning at Haddam-Killingworth High School. The 5k and walk kick off at 10:00 a.m. and the Kids Fun Run follows at approximately 11:15 a.m. On-site registration will be available starting at 8:00 a.m. There will be activity tables for kids with games, crafts and treats hosted by local sports leagues, Girl Scouts, businesses and organizations.
Highlights also include tee shirts for the first 300 registered runners, a custom finisher medal for all participants, costume contests, face painting, live music from School of Rock in Madison, a DJ, delicious warm brunch foods by Café Laurel, and more! To top it all off, the HKYFS “Girls on the Run” Team has created beautiful hand-made Top Finisher prizes for all age categories, adding to the personal touch and infusion of positive youth development. This promises to be a beautiful run, but also a very fun Halloween event connecting community members of all ages!
Runner registration is now open at www.hkyfs.org
HKYFS relies on donations and sponsorships to provide programs, services, and support to our youth and families. Sponsorships are still being accepted, with a variety of levels to include promotion of your business, by contacting HKYFS (860) 345-7498 or events@hkyfs.org.
The Pumpkin Run is the biggest fundraising event for Haddam-Killingworth Youth and Family and it supports our work focusing on positive youth development, counseling, prevention, family programs, mentoring, education, community support team, and more. HKYFS is committed to providing resources and programs that empower young individuals to reach their full potential and keep them safe. The money raised through the Pumpkin Run sponsorships and runner registrations is a meaningful way to support your local community and contribute to the well-being of youth and families in the area.
Don’t miss out on the “spooktacular” fun! Get your family and friends together and let’s run for a cause. It’s all treats and no tricks at the HKYFS Pumpkin Run. See you there!
