10/25/2025
Dare to Scare 5K & Sweet Treat Fun Run – Manteo, NC
Get ready to lace up your running shoes, don your spookiest costume, and celebrate Halloween in motion! The Dare to Scare 5K and Sweet Treat Fun Run in historic downtown Manteo is the perfect blend of fitness, festive fun, and community spirit. Whether you’re an avid runner, a family looking for an exciting activity, or a supporter of local charities, this event has something for everyone.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, October 25, 2025
Location: Downtown Manteo, Roanoke Island, NC
What to Expect: A costumed 5K race and a special kids’ fun run
Perfect For: Runners, families, and Halloween enthusiasts.
Events & Registration
| Event | Time | Fee | Registration Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dare to Scare 5K | 8:00AM – 9:30AM EDT | $45 ($40 early bird) | Price increases after Oct. 23, 2025, 11:59PM EDT |
| Sweet Treat Fun Run | 9:00AM – 10:00AM EDT | $15 | Oct. 23, 2025, 11:59PM EDT |
| Virtual Dare to Scare 5K | Flexible | $15 | Oct. 23, 2025, 11:59PM EDT |
Race & Fun Run Details
Start Locations:
5K: Coastal Studies Institute (CSI), 850 NC-345, Wanchese, NC
Fun Run: Virginia S. Tillett Community Center (VTCC), 950 Marshall C. Collins Drive, Manteo, NC
Finish Line: VTCC for both races
Packet Pickup: Friday, October 24, 2025, 9:00AM – 6:00PM at VTCC
Includes race bib, shirt (if pre-registered by Sept. 14), medal, and spooky swag
Post-race pickup at VTCC for late or virtual participants
Awards & Medals:
Top 3 male & female 5K finishers
Best costume winners
All participants receive medals
Virtual 5K:
Complete anytime before race day and submit your time online
Medals sent to all virtual participants
Registration Pricing
5K Early Bird (by Sept. 14): $40
5K Standard (Sept. 15 – Oct. 26): $45
Race Day / Packet Pickup: $50
Fun Run: $15 (without shirt), $40 (with shirt)
Virtual 5K: $15 (without shirt), $40 (with shirt)
Shirts are long-sleeve. Pre-register by Sept. 14 to guarantee shirt & medal. Limited quantities after Sept. 14.
Important Notes
Parking & Transportation:
Recommended: Park at VTCC (finish line) and shuttle to CSI for the 5K start
Strict traffic control at CSI for runner safety; no vehicles will be allowed to leave until all participants have cleared
Pre-Race Festivities:
5K: Hosted at CSI before the race
Fun Run: Hosted at VTCC before the race
Open to all participants and spectators
Weather: Rain or shine
Why You’ll Love It
The Dare to Scare 5K and Sweet Treat Fun Run isn’t just a race—it’s a community celebration. Run or walk in costume, enjoy the festive atmosphere of historic Manteo, and support a toy drive benefiting local children. It’s the perfect way to make Halloween fun for the whole family while staying active and making a difference!
