Harris County Employee 5K
Get Ready for a Spooktacular Time at the Harris County Howl-O-Ween 5K & NEW 10K!
Dust off your favorite costumes and mark your calendars for a hauntingly fun time at this year’s Harris County Employee Howl-O-Ween event! We’re brewing up twice the excitement with the addition of a brand-new 10K race alongside our classic 5K.
Whether you’re running, walking, or just soaking in the festive spirit, there’s plenty of monster-sized fun for everyone. Enjoy costume contests, spooky games, and a lively lineup of vendor booths. Lace up your running shoes (or broomsticks!) and get ready to run, creep, or crawl your way across the finish line. This is one Howl-O-Ween event you won’t want to miss! REGISTRATION OPENS AUGUST 3, 2026.
Look Back at 2025 HC Employee 5K
FAQs
How much is registration for HC Employees & Retirees
Registration for the 5K is FREE and the 10K $10 for full-time HC Employees & Retirees covered under the Aetna medical plan.
EMPLOYEES: Must enter your full name that is in the Harris County Payroll system AND your correct Employee ID number. Department 601, Temporary, Part-time, or Contract employees do not qualify as Full-time Active HC Employees, and will need to register as “HC Friends, Family, & Kids”.
RETIREES: Must enter your full name that is in the Harris County system AND your correct DOB (mmddyy).
Benefits & Wellness reserves the right to remove any registration that is not valid.
How long is a 5K & 10K in miles?
A 5K is 3.1 miles, while a 10K is 6.2 miles.
Can I walk?
Absolutely! You can either walk or run. Either way, just have a great time!
How long do I have to complete the race?
There is no pace requirement, but all racers must be off the course by 7pm.
When will I receive a shirt?
You must pick up your shirt in-person at packet pickup prior to the race, or you can pick it up the morning of the race. If you would like to have your shirt mailed, you can do so for a limited time before race day.
If you ordered the incorrect size, you may not switch your size until after the race is complete. You can only switch if your shirt is unworn.
What should I wear?
Halloween costumes are encouraged! Wear comfortable clothing and running/walking shoes. Rain gear, sunscreen, bug spray, a hat/visor, sunglasses and personal hydration/nutrition are advised pending weather conditions.
Does the race qualify as a Healthy Actions Incentive?
Yes! Harris County Employees who complete the 5K/10K will earn 15 points toward the Healthy Actions Incentive. You can check your points status on the Navigate Wellbeing platform roughly 30-60 days after the race ends.
Can I bring my dog?
We get it, we love our fur babies! This year the location does not allow pets, so please leave your fur babies at home.