Lace up your walking shoes and get ready to make a difference in our community at the 13th Annual Shamrock Shuffle!
Join us on March 28, 2026, for an inspiring day of fun, fitness, and philanthropy as we come together to support The INN St. Thomas Elgin, the only low barrier 24*7 homeless shelter, in their mission to aid those experiencing chronic homelessness in the St Thomas Elgin area.
Last year, we were thrilled to have 158 participants and 15 sponsors who helped us raise over $29,000. This incredible support has enabled us to provide vital services and care to the most vulnerable members of our community, including shelter, nutritious meals, personal care services and housing support.
The Shamrock Shuffle is more than just a walk—it's a celebration of community spirit and a commitment to making a positive impact. Participants of all ages and abilities are welcome to join, whether you're a seasoned walker or simply looking for a meaningful way to spend your day. The event will feature a scenic route through our beautiful town, with plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow supporters and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Event Highlights:
Date: March 28, 2026
Location: St. Thomas-Elgin
Activities: Scenic walk/run, refreshments, cinch bags and community gathering
Trophies for the Top Fundraising Team, Top Fundraising Individual, Oldest Participant, Youngest Participant, Best Dressed Individual, and Best Dressed Team
All proceeds go directly to supporting The INN St. Thomas Elgin
By participating in the Shamrock Shuffle, you're helping to provide crucial support to those in need. The funds raised will enable The INN to continue offering essential services to those in need.
We invite you to be a part of this special event and make a lasting difference in our community. Register now and join us in our mission to create a safer, healthier, and more supportive environment for all.
Registration fees
Prices are inclusive of mandatory charges, items, and fees
5 KM Run
Price changes in 2 months 10 days-
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Register for 5 KM Run$30.00Now registering Dec 12 – Mar 25
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$30.00Mar 26 – Mar 27
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5 KM Walk
Price changes in 2 months 10 days-
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Register for 5 KM Walk$30.00Now registering Dec 12 – Mar 25
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$30.00Mar 26 – Mar 27
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2KM Family Walk
Price changes in 2 months 10 days-
Children ≤ 12 yrs of age- individual pledge participation is encouraged but not required. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult. A registered accompanying parent is preferred. Race personnel will not be responsible for registrants.
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Register for 2KM Family Walk$30.00Now registering Dec 12 – Mar 25
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$30.00Mar 26 – Mar 27
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Highlights
- 2 & 5 KM Walk and 5KM Run - note adults and kids participate in the same events.
- For runners, walkers & families of all ages and abilities!
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult (A registered accompanying parent is preferred. Race personnel will not be responsible for registrants)
- Trophies for the Top Fundraising Team, Top Fundraising Individual, Oldest Participant, Youngest Participant, Best Dressed Individual, and Best Dressed Team
- Entry Fee goes directly to the fundraising total
- 50/50 draw
- Enjoy Family, Fitness, Friendship and Fun
- The event is for Fun Only and will not be timed
- Free Fabulous Post-Race Refreshments
- Free cinch bags for Paid Online Registrants, and as available on event day
Agenda
Doors Open at 8 a.m. – registration is available up to 8:45am on the day of the event. Cinch bags will be provided while quantities last on the day of the event.
Opening - Welcome and Anthem starts at 8:45 a.m
5 K Run Starts at 9:00 a.m.
5 K Walk Starts at 9:15 a.m.
2K Family Walk Starts at 9:30 a.m.
Join us after for post-race refreshments and the trophy presentations. It's a perfect opportunity to celebrate, mingle, and recognize the outstanding efforts of our participants.
FAQs
Can I register on the day of the event? It is strongly encouraged that you register online before March 26, 2025. In-person registration (cash or cheque only) will be available on Kit Pick Up Night on Friday, March 27, between 5:00 and 7:00 pm at Central United Church, 135 Wellington Street, in the gymnasium. Very last-minute registration can be completed on Race Day from 8:00 am to 8:45 am (cash/cheque only). Please note Saturday morning (8:00-8:45) is very busy with last-minute Kit Pickups and receipt of donation/pledge gifts; therefore, we request registration for the event be done, if at all possible, before the event date.
Do children under 10 have to participate in the same event as their parents? A parent is not required to participate directly with their child, although we would encourage you to use your judgment for your own child. There will be marshals on the route, but we are not responsible for the safety of your child during the event.
Where can I drop off my donations/pledges before the event? You complete this at the Kit Pick Up Night, Friday, March 27, between 5:00 and 7:00 pm at Central United Church, 135 Wellington Street, in the gymnasium (Event Location).
Can I bring my dog? Dogs are welcome on the route as long as they are on a leash and well-behaved, and owners are responsible for removing any treasures their dogs leave behind. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the church.
Is this race timed? No, it is strictly a fun event to get the people of our community together to raise money for a great organization. Feel free to walk or run this in a manner that works for you and your training.
Will the course be closed to traffic? The route will NOT be closed to traffic. Participants are asked to stay on the sidewalks and obey the rules of the road. At intersections where participants will be crossing the road, there will be a marshal to assist.
What if the weather is bad the morning of the event? The event goes on no matter the weather. The gym will remain open through the event if you wish to stay indoors.
How long would it take me to walk 2 km or 5 km, or run 5 km? While the time will vary for each person, a 2 km walk or 5 km run would typically take about 30 to 40 minutes. A 5 km walk would take about an hour. More experienced walkers and runners could take less time.
Will I receive a tax receipt for donations? Tax receipts are provided by Inn Out of the Cold and will be sent to the donor who has donated $20+ and has provided their mailing address. Receipts will be mailed out in time for the 2026 tax season.
Pledge Forms
Printable Pledge forms are available for your donation collection here!
Maps
Event schedule
- Fri, March 27, 2026 5:00 p.m. - Kit Pick Up Night Starts at Central United Church
- Fri, March 27, 2026 8:00 p.m. - Kit Pick Up Night Concludes at Central United Church
- Sat, March 28, 2026 8:00 a.m. - Doors Open + Day-of Registration Starts
- Sat, March 28, 2026 8:45 a.m. - Day-of Registration Concludes + Anthem and Opening Ceremony Starts
- Sat, March 28, 2026 9:00 a.m. - 5 K Run Start
- Sat, March 28, 2026 9:15 a.m. - 5K Walk Start
- Sat, March 28, 2026 9:30 a.m. - 2 K Walk Start
Contact information
- Event contact
- Brian Elliot
- Phone
- 5196362726
- Website
- Visit website
