Jefferson City's downtown will be more colorful than usual Saturday evening, as the Central Missouri Color Vibe Race returns to the Capital City.
For the second year, the national Color Vibe organization is hosting a 5K run downtown, but for the first time in the nation, the well-known colorful run will be in the evening. Chris Wilson, sports sales manager at the Jefferson City Convention and Visitors Bureau, said by having the event in the evening, they can accommodate retailers in the downtown.
"One of the things that we wanted to talk to them about is seeing could we do an evening run," Wilson said. "We want to be as accommodating as we can ... and they believed enough in Jefferson City to make this the first evening event in their company's history."
The Color Vibe last year was hailed as a success, attracting roughly 3,500 participants and surpassing the national organization's expectations for a first-year event. But some downtown retailers later expressed concerns, saying the event had hurt their sales for the day and prevented customers from parking close to stores and restaurants.
Wilson said the Downtown Association was included in the discussion to ensure business owners wanted the event to return and would be supportive of it.
"It is a community venture," Wilson said.
Wilson said organizers believe they will surpass last year's numbers, noting more than 3,000 have already registered for the event. He noted the event does allow same-day registration for anyone still interested in participating.
The race starts at 5 p.m. Saturday, where waves of 500 will be released every few minutes. Once finished, participants take part in the finish line party, throwing packs of color in the air with music and refreshments. Wilson said the downtown area will be blocked off from 6-9 p.m. for the after party, which will include a festival district-like atmosphere where people can purchase wristbands at $5 each to drink within the area. (Runners may purchase wristbands for $2.)
Organizers noted there will be a "surprise" at 7 p.m. but did not provide additional details.
Katherine Reed, communications manager for the CVB, said the entire event will be family friendly, with activities including a bounce house for children.
The 5K route will begin at the corner of Madison and East High streets, going east to Chestnut Street, then west on Capitol Avenue to Lafayette Street. Runners will circle around the prison and Lafayette Street cul-de-sac by way of Jackson Street before returning to the starting point after rounding the Capitol.
The event will benefit Central Missouri We Can!, which encourages healthy lifestyles for children. Color Vibe donates $1 per participant to a local charity at each event.
The Color Vibe uses a biodegradable, corn starch-based coloring agent that does not leave lasting marks. Though any color should wash off easily, organizers urge those concerned about their vehicles on the route to move them ahead of time.
Wilson also advised that while the streets are closed, residents could still use Commercial Way and Wall Way, which will remain open.
"We're excited they're coming back," Wilson said.