When the temperature drops and most of us are bundled inside warm and away from the elements, some of our neighbors face the harsh reality of sleeping outside in the cold. That’s why we’re lacing up our boots and heading outdoors for the 2nd Annual Coldest Night of the Year 5K—and this year, we’re inviting you to join us and bring the whole family along!
A Walk with Heart-Warming Purpose
The Coldest Night of the Year isn’t just another winter 5K. It’s a community movement to raise critical funds for Nests’ shelters across La Porte County, ensuring no one faces freezing nights without a warm, safe place to sleep. Last year, our community showed up in a big way, and this year, we’re turning up the fun factor while staying true to our mission.
Snow Many New Activities for All Ages!
Here’s where things get ice-cold awesome: We’ve transformed this year’s event into a true winter wonderland experience that’s perfect for everyone from toddlers to grandparents. After, before, or during the 5K walk. Here’s what we have in the works:
Snowball Distance Competition – Think you’ve got an arm that could give a major league pitcher a run for their money? Prove it! See who can launch a snowball the farthest. This event is open to children only.
Snow Painting Station – Break out the spray bottles filled with colored water and turn fresh snow into your canvas. It’s messy, it’s colorful, and it’s absolutely delightful.
Tic-Tac-Toe in the Snow – Classic game, winter twist! Challenge your friends and family to a match played right in the snow.
Build-a-Snow-Person Donation Station – Here’s where community spirit really shines! Build your best snowman, snowwoman, or snow-creature, then dress them up with hats, gloves, and scarves that you bring to donate. Or put your donated items on an already created snowperson. These warm items will go directly to those who need them most at Nest’s Shelters.
Snowball Relay – Team up and race with snowballs in this hilarious relay that’ll have everyone laughing (and maybe slipping a little).
Frozen Bubble Station – Ever watched a bubble freeze in mid-air? It’s magical! This crowd-pleaser is perfect for the little ones (and the young at heart). *Weather permitting*
Drawing on Tablecloths – Let creativity flow! Kids can color and draw on tablecloths while parents warm up with hot beverages in the Senior Center, where our community meal will be served.
And that’s just the beginning! We’ve got even more surprises planned that’ll make this outdoor celebration one for the books.
Win Big with Our Annual Awards!
Think you’ve got what it takes to be recognized as one of our Coldest Night champions? We’re bringing back our legendary awards, and trust us, these titles are worth bragging about:
The Abominable SnowFan Award – This goes to our top fundraiser! Whether you’re rallying your workplace, tapping into your social network, or just have incredibly generous friends and family, the person who raises the most money for the cause will take home this prestigious honor. Every dollar you raise helps provide shelter, warmth, and a new start.
Sub-Zero Hero Award – This is the award that makes us tear up every year. The Sub-Zero Hero goes to the walker who shows the greatest effort and determination. Last year, we saw people with mobility challenges refuse to let anything stop them, young children complete their first 5K, and older adults prove that age is just a number. This award celebrates the heart and grit that embody what this event is all about, showing up for others, no matter what.
Frost in Show Award – Got a hilarious costume idea? A creative winter getup? Maybe you’re coming as a walking snowflake, a human ice cube, or dressed as your favorite frozen treat? The Frost in Show award goes to the most fun, creative costume of the event. Bonus points if it makes us laugh and keeps you warm!
Limited Edition Mug Alert!
The first 150 walkers to register on the Coldest Night of the Year website will receive our exclusive 2026 Coldest Night of the Year collectable travel mug. This year’s mugs are only available this year, and once they’re gone, they’re gone! Last year’s mugs were a hot item, so don’t miss out. Are you going to build your exclusive Nest travel mug collection?
Why It Matters
Behind all the fun and festivities is a serious mission: raising money to support shelters for our unhoused neighbors that provide warmth, safety, and dignity. Every registration, every dollar raised, every donated winter item brings us closer to a community where no one has to endure a cold night without shelter.
When we walk together in the cold, we’re reminded, even just for an hour or two, of what it might feel like to face winter without a home. But unlike those we’re supporting, we get to go back inside. They deserve that same warmth and security.
Ready to Join Us?
This is snow time to hesitate! Register today here and be part of something bigger than a winter walk. Be part of a movement that says our community cares, our community shows up, and our community believes that everyone deserves a warm place to sleep.
Bundle up, bring the family, and let’s make some winter magic while changing lives.
