Saturday, October 10, 2026

Costumes, Cash Prizes and Civic Spirit: “Witch Way to the Polls” 5K Comes to Griffith Park This Sunday

League of Women Voters Pasadena Area co-hosts family-friendly Halloween run/walk on October 11 offers cash awards for top finishers and best costumes; kids 13 and under run free

Runners, walkers and costumed ghouls of all ages will take over Griffith Park this Sunday, October 11, for Witch Way to the Polls, a 5K run/walk sponsored by the nonpartisan League of Women Voters Pasadena Area and Greater Los Angeles area leagues. The race starts at 9:00 a.m. from 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, with check-in opening at 8:00 a.m. Parking is free.

The League is hosting the event to raise awareness of the need for informed voting and of the services it offers voters. What sets the League apart from other reliable online voter resources is its one-on-one, direct service: League members meet with voters in person and make appearances in the community.

The event is built for everyone. Competitive runners can chase a personal best, while families, friends and neighbors can stroll the course at their own pace — strollers welcome. Kids 13 and under participate free.

“As John Lewis is so often quoted: ‘The vote…is the most powerful nonviolent tool we have in a democratic society, and we must use it.’ Now is the time to stand up for our communities, our people, and our votes,” said Amy Majeske, President, League of Women Voters Pasadena Area.

Costume contest with cash prizes

Costumes are encouraged but optional. Judges will award cash prizes for the most creative, cutest, scariest and funniest costumes, plus a group-costume category. Participants must check in by 8:15 a.m. to enter the contest.

Cash awards for top finishers

The first three finishers in both the men’s and women’s categories will receive cash awards.

Family festival

Beyond the race, the morning features music, face painting, games and candy for kids and kids at heart.

Register, donate or volunteer

Registration for the 5K is $43.40 (including a $3.40 processing fee) and remains open online until the 9:00 a.m. start on race day. The event is also raising funds online toward a $15,000 goal to support community outreach, and volunteers are being recruited. Sign up, donate or volunteer at runsignup.com/WitchWayToThePolls.