The first annual Glitter Run will offer people an opportunity to be bold, be proud and be colorfully bedazzled.
The 5K run and walk will take place on Aug. 20 as a benefit for the Los Angeles LGBT Center and its newest initiative, Mi Centro, a partnership with the Latino Equality Alliance providing a variety of bilingual services in Boyle Heights.
While they travel the scenic Hollywood Boulevard route, within view of iconic landmarks that include the Hollywood sign, TCL Chinese Theatre, and the Capitol Records building, participants will be gently coated in seven colors of non-toxic washable glitter as they pass seven glitter stations.
After collecting their medals at the finish line, the runners/walkers will enjoy free entry to a Dazzling Dance Party featuring music by some of L.A’s most celebrated DJs, bloody marys and mimosas, a collection of popular food trucks and a number of surprises. No fundraising is required, just a $70 registration fee for people who sign-up by June 30, or $85 after that date. Children 12 and under can run or walk for free. Registration is available online.
“Now more than ever is the time for us to unite in celebration of our diversity, in joyful and determined defiance of the forces that seek to divide and weaken us,” said Los Angeles LGBT Center CEO Lorri L. Jean. Longtime community organizer Leif Green, a principal architect of the new event said, “We think The Glitter Run will be embraced by all kinds of people citywide who want to come together to share some sparkle and uplift during these unsettling times.”
Thousands of glittery people of all shapes, sizes, races, cultures, ages, sexual orientations, and gender identities are expected to run or walk in the event, which will be family-friendly and welcoming to all.
Each participant will receive a Glitter Run t-shirt or tank top, a bonus tube of glitter to apply at the beginning of the run, a completion medal and a souvenir Glitter Run towel as well as admission to the Dazzling Dance Party.
“We’re colorizing Hollywood in a whole new way with the nation’s first Glitter Run,” said Craig Miller, the founder of AIDS Walk Los Angeles and part of the team producing the new event. “Some seek to divide people along color lines. We seek to unite people in a massive line of color.”
The run begins at 9 a.m. on Aug. 20 at the LGBT Center’s McDonald/Wright Building, 1625 N. Schrader Blvd., in Los Angeles.
