Save the Date: Monday, Dec. 21, 2026
BRIGHT LIGHTS Run-Walk Fundraiser 2025
Join us for the 3rd Annual Bright Lights Run-Walk Fundraiser –
a community-driven, festive 2-mile FUN run/walk through Olin Park’s dazzling holiday light displays.
This event has become a cherished tradition, held annually on the third Monday of December.
Proceeds go to Girls on the Run of South Central Wisconsin (GOTR),
whose programs inspire young girls to recognize their inner strength,
stay active, and stand up for themselves and others.
It’s an evening of twinkling lights, joyful movement, and camaraderie – all for a great cause!
Ah, Memories . . .
THE EVENT
Date + Location
Monday, December 15, 2025
Marriott Hotel
706 John Nolen Drive, Madison
Timing
5:00 pm - Arrive and pick up your customized Bright Light's hat
5:20 pm - Group Photo
5:30 pm - Run/Walk
Route
The 2-mile course starts AND ends at the Marriott Hotel.
Run or walk from the hotel through the Olin Park’s “Holiday Fantasy in Lights” and return for appetizers and hot cocoa. Cash bar
Celebration
When you return,
enjoy complimentary appetizers and hot cocoa. Cash bar.
REGISTRATION
Registration is a $50 donation per participant with proceeds benefiting Girls on the Run (GOTR).
To Register: Simply send your donation via Venmo to @Heather-Ewing-19.
IMPORTANT: In the Venmo note, please include “BL-participant’s name"
That is all you have to do - it's really that simple!
Only a few of our special Bright Lights winter beanie hats remain.
Register soon to secure yours today!
On Event Day: Check in at 5 PM to pick up your limited-edition Bright Lights beanie
(your wearable souvenir of the night!) and meet fellow participants.
We’ll snap a festive group photo at 5:20 PM as we head out to run or walk at 5:30 PM sharp.
Dress warm with layers and your brightest holiday lights (reflective wear highly recommended) or attire.
Lets embrace Mother Nature, the magic of the holidays, and support our girls!
OUR SPONSORS
This event is graciously sponsored by:
Heather Ewing, CCIM
Founder | President
Boutique commercial real estate brokerage firm located in downtown Madison.
NNN Leasing, Sales and Mixed-Use Developments that meet proforma expectations for Tenants, Landlords, and Developers that enrich our community. National speaker and International Marathoner.
Founder of the Bright Lights Fundraiser.
Marriott is a global leader in hospitality, known for setting the standard in service, consistency, and guest experience.
With a strong commitment to community, Marriott supports local partnerships and causes that create lasting impact. Their focus on connection, excellence, and purpose extends well beyond the hotel stay.
TESTIMONIALS
Bright Lights is more than a run-
it's an uplifting night of connection, community and purpose. Walking through the park lights alongside incredible women while supporting Girls on the Run makes this fundraiser truly special.
Olesya, Sun Prairie
Such a fun event, for a great cause!! Love experiencing the Holiday lights up close and personal every year.
Julie Spitzack, Madison
The Bright Lights Run is something we look forward to all season! It's such a fun way to see the Olin lights and we love supporting such a great cause.
Ashley, Fitchburg
FAQs
What to Wear
Wear layers as it will be cold out--it's Wisconsin.
Wear reflective wear as we will be in the dark
with snow, possibly ice.
Cars will be passing us throughout the process.
2-Mile Run or Walk
We'll have a group leader for the Walk.
Heather will lead the Runners.
This is not a race-no bib, race chip, nor trophies;
rather, donation for a great cause.
Minimum Age
We will be on the road,
cars will be passing us throughout the process.
We are on the sidewalk for about 25% of the 2-miles.
Minimum age of 15-older.
Must be accompanied by the parent/adult.
Hungry?
Thanks to the Marriott for hosting a 3rd year in a row!
They have taken fantastic care of us each year
with warm appetizers, a festive salad,
hot cocoa and cash bar.
Customized Logo Hat
Each year it's a joy to select the color, style,
and bring it to life with our Bright Lights Logo.
Psst, this year it will have a head lamp!
Sponsor in 2026?
I'm a firm believer to donate to causes
that speak to your heart.
I found running to be an integral part of my life.
At the age of 40 and it shifted the
trajectory of my life.
Not only do you get to spend time in Mother Nature but it's a great way to catch up with family/friends
or make new friends.
Donate to GOTR so our girls can learn
and integrate these skills sooner rather than later.
As we trust ourselves
confidence grows
and doors open.