3rd Annual Pride 5K, Color Run Returns To Union County

UNION COUNTY, NJ — Union County commissioners are inviting residents to the third annual Union County LGBTQ+ Pride 5K and Color Run on Saturday, June 6, at Oak Ridge Park in Clark.

The park is located at 136 Oak Ridge Road. Registration begins at 8 a.m., and the 5K and Color Run start at 9 a.m.

The event is open to participants of all ages and abilities, who are invited to walk, run, stroll, or roll in celebration of Pride Month.

Registration is $25 per person in advance and $30 on the day of the event. Participants can register online at www.ucnj.org/lgbtq, and all participants will receive a Pride 5K T-shirt while supplies last.

The 5K race is certified and will be professionally timed by Split Second Racing.

The Color Run is described as a just-for-fun event with eco-friendly colored powder thrown along the course. Participants may still join either the Color Run or the 5K while opting out of the colored powder.

County officials said the event has continued to draw residents together.

"Our 5K and Color Run event continues to grow in size each year, bringing together more residents from across Union County to celebrate Pride in a fun, meaningful, and visible way," said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. "It’s incredible to see the sense of community and support expand with every race."

The event will also include resource tables, activities for families and giveaways for participants, according to the county.

Union County Commissioner Vice Chair Rebecca L. Williams said the county's Pride events are intended to create welcoming spaces for residents.

"Pride Month in Union County is about creating spaces where everyone feels welcome and supported," said Union County Commissioner Vice Chair Rebecca L. Williams. "From the 5K to community gatherings, these events reflect our commitment to unity across every part of the county."

Union County also plans a Pride Month flag raising on Monday, June 1, at 12:30 p.m. on the steps of the Union County Courthouse. Commissioner Al Mirabella, liaison to the Board of Commissioners’ LGBTQ+ Ad Hoc Committee, said the county supports LGBTQ+ residents year-round.

"Union County is proud to support and uplift our LGBTQ+ community not just during Pride Month, but throughout the entire year. We are committed to building an inclusive environment where all residents feel valued and celebrated," said Mirabella.

More information about the Union County Office of LGBTQ+ Affairs, Pride Month events and registration for the 5K and Color Run is available at www.ucnj.org/lgbtq.

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