Columbia Falls will trip the light fantastic Sept. 16 as it hosts its first ever Glacier Glow Run. Glow runs are gaining popularity across the country as runners complete a 5 kilometer run in the dark wearing glow-in-dark accessories and then they’re sprayed with colors in stations along the route that also glow in the dark when lit by blue lights.

The event is fun for the whole family. The race won’t be timed. The Columbia Falls Lions Club will team up with the promoters of the Snow Joke Half Marathon to bring the run to town. Presented by Fastoys and Cowgirl Coffee in partnership with the Daily Inter Lake and the Missoula Independent, the Glacier Glow 5K will take runners from the Coop through River’s Edge Park and back to enjoy a flashy, pulsating dance party under the stars.

The race will start about 8:30 p.m. or whenever darkness falls, said race director Christie Magill.

“We are excited to connect the Columbia Falls community with the Lions Club in an exciting and energizing way,” Magill said. The Coop is a wonderful venue to throw a party, so we decided to start and finish the run there and pull it all together with music, lights, food, community and more.”

Ready, set, glow, a pre-race celebration hosted by Fastoys and Cowgirl Coffee is Sept. 14 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Fastoys on Highway 2 and will include food, giveaways, discounts and more. The event will give those already registered the chance to pick up their race packets and those who have not registered, the chance to sign up and join the fun. Racers who can’t make the event can stop by Fastoys Sept. 15 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. to pick up their race packet.

A substantial portion of the proceeds from the Glacier Glow 5K will go to the Columbia Falls Lions Club chapter.

Volunteers are needed and many shifts throughout the day are available. People or groups interested in volunteering can learn more and sign up at glacierglow.com. To register for the race, visit glacierglow.com. Cost is $35, but increases to $50 after Sept. 15, so early registration is advised. Race packets include a race bib, glow bracelet, necklace and glasses.