It’s raining candy, alleluia, it’s raining candy!  That’s what one might imagine when they first hear about The Great Candy Run.  An image that includes candy at every turn to the extent that participants are either “swimming” in it or it’s falling from the sky.  As fun as that sounds, this event does so much more than gorge its participants with the sweet stuff.  The nostalgic candy theme draws people of all ages and gets them moving!  As we all know, physical activity is a key element to a healthy lifestyle.  Physical activity strengthens bones and muscles, reduces risk of disease and even improves self-esteem.  Who wouldn’t be feeling good about themselves after completing a 5K or even just spending the day chasing after their little ones as they run through the festival of activities?

In its first year, this sweet theme attracted young students at an abounding rate!  Were they coming specifically to get a workout, specifically thinking about embarking on a health journey that will hopefully last a lifetime?  Not necessarily, but many were chasing their goal of completing their first 5K, others came as part of a running club and still others came just looking for good old fashioned fun.  Whatever their reason, it was amazing to see so many kids being active and having fun doing it!

GCR-DenverThese young kids weren’t there by themselves either.  There were many families, big and small, with kids of all ages.  These families were not only strengthening their muscles but also strengthening family bonds and creating memories (and healthy habits) that will last a lifetime.  The tiniest participants ran in the Gumdrop Kid’s Fun Run and then squealed with joy while jumping in the jump houses, getting their faces painted, playing games and indulging in cotton candy!  The older crowd enjoyed the 5K followed by live music, a vendor expo and lots of prizes being handed out by the sweet prize fairy.

This is event of full of sweetness, but not all of it is the kind that will keep your dentist busy for years.  Come join the sweetness this fall in Denver & Atlantic Beach!