'Freaky 5-K' Means Halloween Attire

Ghosts and goblins and witches and warlocks and a whole host of other costumed characters will be running and walking around Rumford on Sunday, Oct. 21.

Yes, it’s time for the annual Freaky 5-K road race and walk sponsored by the East Providence Firefighters. Costumes are optional but, really, you want to fit in, right?

The race starts at 10 am at the Rumford Fire Station. Pre-race registration starts at 9 am. It goes off rain or shine.

“We’ve been doing it for six or seven years,” said Eric Linacre, the chief organizer. “It’s designed for all ages and all skill levels.”

And all types of costumes and get-ups, he should have said. Approximately 200 to 250 runners and walkers are expected to wear Halloween attire to race.

“Tasteful costumes, please,” Linacre did say.

The race starts at the Rumford fire station and follows Newman Avenue to Pawtucket Avenue, Wilson Street and Roger Williams Avenue, and Bourne Lane and North Broadway back to the station.

Proceeds from the race benefit the East Providence Firefighters Community Fund, which pays for sponsorships, youth sports, scholarships, Thanksgiving food baskets, and Christmas gifts for children with need.

“It all goes back to the community,” Linacre said.

You can register on the race website or in person on race day.

“We get a lot of entries on race day,” the firefighter said. “Some people like to see what the weather’s like.”

After the race, "firehouse chili" will be served in the fire station. Everyone is welcome.

One thing that is sure is you will see some of the most unusual racing attire you will ever see at a road race.