When and where is the Big Gay 5K?

Saturday, October 24, 2026, starting and finishing at the freshly renovated Armory Park. Our newly approved course takes you through the historic Armory Park neighborhood on freshly paved streets. Yes, freshly paved. In Tucson. Miracles happen.

What time does the 5K start, and how early should I arrive?

The 5K starts at 9:00 AM, and the venue opens at 8:00 AM. Arrive at least 20 minutes early, preferably earlier if you need the restroom. Picking up your bib on race morning? Give yourself considerably more time.

What do I get with my registration?

Both events include access to the Kickoff Kiki and race-day festivities, plus a collectible bib featuring artwork by local Tucson artists.

Big Gay 5K participants also receive Big Gay Socks and a finisher medal. High Heel Havoc participants receive a complimentary can of Ray Ray's Sonoran Tea at the Pour Decisions Playground.

Are there prizes or age-group awards?

The 5K won't have competitive awards, but every finisher gets a medal and our full love and sass.

High Heel Havoc participants can compete for prizes in several categories. Speed isn't everything, darling.

Where do I pick up my bib?

At the Kickoff Kiki on Friday, October 23, from 3–7 PM at Highwire (30 S. Arizona Ave.).

Pick up your bib and Big Gay Socks, enjoy drink specials, meet our nonprofit partners and join the festivities.

Can I pick up my bib on race day?

Yes, for a small fee to make sure we're staffed and can support this.

Can I pick up someone else's bib?

Yes! We just need confirmation this is approved by the person you're picking up for. A photocopy or text message of their ID, or a texted permission from the number they registered with.

Please make sure everyone wears their assigned bib. You may pick up bibs for up to four other people.

Can I register on race day?

Yes, but registering in advance is considerably cheaper!

Can I transfer my registration to someone else?

Yes! You can transfer your registration through RunSignup until October 15, when we begin assigning bibs.

Can I get a refund or defer my registration if I can't attend?

We don't offer refunds, but you can defer your registration to next year's event. Deferrals must be requested by October 15. We'll honor your registration when next year's event opens.

Is the 5K timed? Will there be official results?

We'll have a race clock, but no chip timing in Year 1. We anticipate a quick start, so your finish time should be pretty close to your actual 5K time.

Starting after the clock? We'll help you with the math. But wihtout chip timing, we won't be doing official results this year.

Do I have to run, or can I walk the 5K?

Run, walk or do a little of both. All paces are welcome!

Is there a course time limit?

Yes. We ask participants to finish within 1 hour and 15 minutes so we can reset for High Heel Havoc.

That's approximately a 24-minute-per-mile walking pace. No need to break any land-speed records.

Can I bring my dog?

Please leave pets at home. Trained service animals are welcome, but be aware that the event includes amplified music and potentially large crowds.

Will there be water stations and restrooms along the course?

Portable restrooms will be available at Armory Park (start/finish). An on-course water station will be located approximately halfway through the 5K.

Where should I park, and will there be road closures?

We'll share parking, transportation and road-closure information during race week. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.

What happens if the weather is bad?

We're rain or shine! We'll monitor weather conditions closely and make safety-related decisions if lightning or other hazardous weather threatens the event.

Do I have to be gay to register?

Absolutely not! On the queer spectrum or off it, you're welcome here. If you welcome everyone, we welcome you.

Can I participate in both the 5K and the High Heel Havoc?

Yes! You just have to make sure to finish the 5K and be ready to check in for the High Heel Havoc in an hour. For folks doing both events, we will give you a bag to hold a change of clothes and we'll look after them.

What should I wear?

Most importantly, comfortable shoes to get your miles in. Costumes, decor, sequins, etc are all very encouraged as long as there is no nudity.