Color Me Rad Saturday in Columbus

Color Me Rad is returning to Columbus.

“This is the most unique run we have during the year. It is a lot of crazy fun,” said Becca Zajac, vice president of marketing and community relations for Uptown Columbus, Inc.

This will be the fourth time Columbus has hosted this 5k.

Zajac said between 3,000 and 4,000 people are expected to participate.

She said repair work being done on 10th and 11th streets downtown should not affect the event but participants might want to plan on arriving a little earlier than usual.

Color Me Rad events are held throughout the country and are loosely based on the Hindu Festival of Colors known a Holi. The festive colors are a sign of the beginning of spring.

Participants receive a packet containing a T-shirt, a Rad temporary tattoo and a phone case.

Those participating may walk or run.

“You can push a stroller,” Zajac said.

At eight color stations along the way, volunteers coat participants with liquids, powders and gels of blue, green, pink, purple and yellow until they come out looking like a tie-dyed hippie. Each section of the run adds a different color.

Participants have their own color powder to use at the finish line.

The color materials are corn starch-based and are not toxic.

Music and food are part of the festivities.

Zajac said parking on the day of the event will be free in the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts garage.

“It is the type of event that is fun to just come and watch. We want people to come and eat at some of the restaurants,” Zajac said.

What: Color Me Rad 5k run/walk

When: Saturday

Where: Woodruff Riverfront Park, 1000 Bay Ave. in Columbus

When: Shifts begin at 9 a.m. The running should be over by noon.

Who: It is fun for all ages.

Cost: $50 in advance. $55 online. If online, use promo code “uptown” to receive 10 percent off entry fee. Uptown Columbus will receive 15 percent of proceeds to fund other events.

Packets: Packet pickup will be Friday from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Big Dog Running Company at 1200 Broadway. Free parking will be available at the Synovus Parking Deck, at the corner of Bay Avenue and 12th Street. You must bring printed ticket or smartphone with your e-receipt.

This story was originally published March 8, 2016 at 7:44 PM with the headline "Color Me Rad Saturday in Columbus."