“The event kicks off the Leif Erikson Festival in downtown Norway,” Race Coordinator Tori Normand said.

The race, which starts at 9 a.m., features three options — 10K, 5K and 2-mile Fun Run.

“We love seeing runners of all ages come out, whether you’re chasing your personal best or just out for fun,” she said.

Participants on the 10K and 5K course can enjoy a scenic tour around town that includes the challenge of the Norway Hill.

Emma Bubloni of Norway crosses the finish line in the 2024 Leif’s Run as she gets a high-five from Dennis Lynch. (Contributed photo)

Miles will be marked with water stops along the way, including a station at the Norway Spring.

The 2-mile is a flat course that anyone can do, she added.

All three groups will again do a lap around Strawberry Lake.

“The courses are the same as last year,” Normand said.

Everyone is encouraged to come dressed in Viking attire, she said, adding, “I will be awarding a prize for the best costume.”

Registration will be from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. in the City Hall lobby.

“Runners are still able to sign up online until Friday or from 7 a.m. until the start of the race Saturday,” she said.

The start and finish line is near City Hall on Main Street in downtown Norway.

“The 10K will go first, followed by the 5K runners and then the 2-mile — there is about a five minute window between each start,” Normand said.

The 10K and 5K will be chip-timed by Tortoise and Hare Timing.

Normand noted they already have 70 participants signed up, which exceeds last year’s total. “I’m hoping to break the 100 mark,” she added.

Registration fee for the 10K is $35, 5K is $30 and the 2-mile Fun Run is $25.

Each participant will receive a long-sleeve shirt featuring the new 2025 Leif’s Run logo designed by Dickinson-Iron Technical Education Center students.

The Swedish Passport in Norway donated the shirts for the event.

An option for no shirt is also available with a $10 price reduction.

“Those who pre-register will be guaranteed a shirt the day of the race,” she said, adding those who sign up on race day can get a shirt but it might have to be delivered after the event.

At the conclusion of the races about 10:30 a.m., Sara Robinson will emcee the awards presentation at the band shell.

Awards will be given for top finishers overall — male and female for 10K, 5K and 2-mile, and in each age group for 10K and 5K.

Custom medals by Fifth Avenue Fab will be given to the top finishers. Normand said the winner of the 5K and 10K will receive a unique prize as well.

All race participants will receive $5 in Viking Bucks as part of their registration, to be used at participating Norway businesses. “There is a QR code available to scan to find out where they can spend their bucks,” she said.

They will also get a coupon for Back 40 Axe Throwing that will be set up on 10th Avenue.

Volunteers are still needed along the course to cheer on runners. Anyone interested can go to the Leif’s Run sign-up at https://runsignup.com/leifsrun.

Normand encourages everyone to stay after the awards to enjoy the traditions that make the festival so much fun.

Leif Erikson Festival will feature music, live filming of the “Mad Dog & Merrill” show, food vendors, Viking reenactments, parade, blacksmith demonstration, art show, children’s activities, crowning of Miss Norway and announcement of Friend of Norway.

From 4 to 7 p.m., Mister Mom’s will host a “Leif’s Gathering” featuring authentic Scandinavian snacks and beverages.

The festival will wrap up at 7 p.m. with a walk for the Viking funeral pyre and burial at Strawberry Lake Park.

“We are looking forward to this year’s event and hope everyone comes out to cheer on races,” Normand said.

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Terri Castelaz can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85241, or tcastelaz@ironmountaindailynews.com.