The Running Dead, Highland

A shotgun blast signals the start of the race, and the runners tear off through the woods. All the while, the sounds of growls and moans behind them grow closer. Though held in broad daylight, The Running Dead presents its participants with a chilling challenge: if you're a runner, make it to the finish line in one piece, and if you're a zombie, track down your prey. Regardless of affiliation, the 5K challenges all its guests with a series of man-made and natural obstacles.

Throughout the course, runners are encouraged to work as a team. At the end, those who survive are rewarded with a beer or soft drink and a truce with the zombies. After the race, all are welcome to the Zombie Prom after-party: a horror-centric celebration featuring vegan and carnivore-friendly food, an awards ceremony for the most convincing zombie getups, and a chance to argue with a local principal that the undead shouldn't have to do homework. A DJ drops beats throughout the event, while two local cover bands and a headliner provide a live soundtrack.