This Friday night make the Fantasy 5km Run and Lights Parade your opportunity to visit Howell.  The event is consistently voted one of Michigan�s top ten races.  It�s a rare evening race with the added bonus of running or walking in front of more than 25,000 cheering spectators. 

Now in its eighth year, participation has jumped dramatically to more than 1,000 runners.  30% of them come from out of state and Canada. What has made the run popular is its small town country charm and the delightful parade of lights.

If you get to Howell early, downtown is a treasure trove of 19^th century architecture. Besides the charming examples of Victorian and Greek revival storefronts and homes, the Livingston County Courthouse and Howell Opera House are worth admiring.  Just west of the Courthouse in the center of the parade route is Christmas Alley, which is filled with seasonal refreshments, musical entertainment and crafts.

The Fantasy Run and Lights Parade is one of three major festivals in Howell.  The Michigan Balloonfest and Melon Festival also attract thousands to this captivating community. The run benefits charities such as Toys for Tots, Police and Fire departments plus youth track clubs.

The parade, which begins at 7 p.m., is the traditional start of the Christmas season. It features more than sixty illuminated floats, marching bands and dog brigades.  The nighttime parade can capture you like an epiphany.  Its magical and spiritual moments sometimes remind you of the oohs and ahhs of Fourth of July fireworks.

Residents spin their own hospitality to the uninitiated. Last year after the run, I stood shivering on a crowded sidewalk as I waited for the parade to begin. My body was adjusting from the race. A resident noticing my condition walked back into her home and offered me a blanket and hot chocolate. I was inspired by the warmth and kindness of those around me. 

The race starts and finishes at the First Presbyterian Church on Grand River at 6 p.m. Packet pick up is at 4 p.m. but I advise arriving early. The hallways start to jam and you begin to feel the nervous anticipation of the race.  Runners grab their Fantasy gloves and luminary lights (rather than T-shirts) that are part of the entry fee then head out to loosen up in the neighborhood streets.  It's a good idea to wear reflective vests too with all the runner and parade traffic hustling for a prime spot. 

The race loops twice in front of the parade crowd and the streets are aglow with lights and noisemakers. Many runners enjoy hearing their name called out as they pass the Lights Parade stage. There is plenty of time to watch the awards ceremony before the parade begins. The event uses chip timing to speed up the results posting.  Age group winners take home distinctive Christmas ornaments to remind them of their Howell experience.

The entry fee is only $18 on race day. For more information call race director Jim Young at 517 546-2439