2026 Frozen Paw 5K

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is the Frozen Paw 5K?
Sunday, January 18, 2026.

Where is the Frozen Paw 5K located?
The event is held in Downtown Rochester.

What time does the race start?
9:00am | 5K Run/Walk
Please give yourself enough time to park, register (if you are not pre-registered), pick up your race bib and shirt (if you haven't already done so), and get to the starting line for your event. The roads used for the event are closed prior to the start times. In addition, it gets very crowded inside the tent leading up to the start time, in both the pre-registered and late registration areas, so, please, arrive early!

How do I register?
You may register online at https://raceroster.com/events/2026/109488/2026-frozen-paw-5k

I cannot attend the event, can I receive a refund?
Sorry, but no. As has been the case for every event, we have a "No Refund" policy for the race.

Can I transfer my registration?
Yes. Please email with your transfer request.

Is the race in-person or virtual?
For 2026, we are offering both options - in-person and virtual.

Is a course map available?
5K Run/Walk

Where do I park for the event?
Free parking will be available throughout Downtown Rochester in designated parking areas. There are plenty of paved, secure parking spaces located throughout the area adjacent to Rochester Mills Beer Company.

What are the Age Groups for the event?
The designated age-groups are as follows for both male and female:

Ages 1-12, 13-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75 and Over

Are there Age-Group awards?
Due to everyone receiving a finisher's medal, we will not be providing age-group awards.

Where and when can I pick up my race swag?
The Frozen Paw 5K experience begins at the 2-day Expo on the Leader Dog campus! Registrants can pick up race packets, browse exclusive gear, connect with local vendors, and enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at Leader Dogs for the Blind. It’s the perfect way to gear up for race day while experiencing the mission your run supports. You may change your selected location at any time until Monday, January 12, 2026 (11:59 PM).

Early Pick-Up will be at the following locations:
Friday, Jan. 16 | 3 - 7pm, at Leader Dogs for the Blind (Rochester Hills)
Saturday, Jan. 17 | 10am- 3pm at Leader Dogs for the Blind (Rochester Hills)
Sunday, Jan. 18 | 7:30 - 9am at Rochester Mills Beer Company (Rochester)

Can someone else pick up my race swag for me?
Yes. Please bring a copy of the individual(s) confirmation email for verification.

What do I get for my registration?
This year's apparel will be in true Leader Dog spirit. We are working with local vendors to get the best quality. They are available in adult and youth sizes.

All registrants will receive a commemorative medal!
Keep in mind, we order a certain quantity of shirts - when we run out, we're out.
NOTE: Due to supply chain issues and delays in shipping, we are limited to a set number items. Once we sell out of an individual size, we will not be able to offer that option any longer. We apologize for any inconvenience.

After the race, participants can enjoy post-race food at the finish line. Each participant will receive a complimentary age-appropriate beverage provided by Rochester Mills Beer Company and Starbucks Coffee. For an extra fee, you can also enjoy a pancake breakfast at the Rochester Fire Department.

Paid, pre-registered participants are guaranteed a shirt, but please, pick up your shirt and race bib before the race. Late registrants are not guaranteed a shirt. As mentioned above, we order a certain quantity of shirts and quantities may be limited on race day.

Do you have a bag check available?
No. Please leave all personal belongings in your vehicles. We are not responsible for any lost or stolen items.

How do I know if I am registered?
You should have received a confirmation email. If you did not, or cannot find it, please visit our online search tool.

I ordered the wrong shirt size, or I would prefer a different shirt size, can I exchange it?
Sorry, but we cannot. Because of the time required for printing and shipping, shirts have to be ordered well in advance of the race, in quantities based on what had been requested by previous years race participants. However, if we have any shirts leftover from the event, you may check to see if your size is available at the event.

Can I bring my dog?
Unfortunately not. Leader Dog Puppy Raisers, Ambassador Dogs, and Working Dogs may/will be onsite.