Lace up your running (or walking!) shoes and join us for The Masher 5K Fun Run on Saturday, October 17! Whether you're chasing a personal best, enjoying a crisp autumn walk with family and friends, or simply running for the love of potatoes, every stride directly supports hands-on agricultural education programs at Food + Farm Exploration Center.
Agriculture touches every meal, every family, and every community. The Masher Run brings us together to celebrate Wisconsin agriculture, promote healthy living, and help ensure future generations understand where their food comes from, the innovations powering modern farming, and why a thriving ag industry is essential to our state's future.
Best of all? Crossing the finish line under the World’s Largest Potato Masher is just the beginning. Stick around immediately following the race for our annual National Mashed Potato Day Celebration, packed with interactive activities, our famous mashed potato bar, and family-friendly spud-themed fun!
DETAILS
Registration Cost:
Early Bird: $35.00 (Available through September 30, 2026)
Standard: $40.00 (October 1 – morning of race)
Important Deadlines: Register by September 26, 2026 to guarantee your finisher t-shirt!
SCHEDULE
Packet Pick-Up: 8:00 AM – 9:45 AM (at Food + Farm Exploration Center)
Race Start: 10:00 AM
Race End: 11:30 AM
Post-Race Party: 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM during our National Mashed Potato Day Celebration
WHAT TO EXPECT
Scenic Route: The race kicks off at Food + Farm Exploration Center and leads to Lake Pacawa Park, where participants complete three scenic laps around the water before returning to the Center to cross the finish line.
Flexible Options: Looking for a shorter distance? Participants are welcome to complete a shortened route at their own comfortable pace.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Strollers are welcome! (Please note: No wagons or pets allowed on the course).
Post-Race Party Included: Your registration gives you front-row access to our National Mashed Potato Day festivities—featuring a loaded mashed potato bar, potato sculpting contests, bounce house, field tours, and specials in the Colorful Plate Café!
Purpose-Driven Steps: 100% of proceeds help fund hands-on learning and agricultural literacy for students across Wisconsin.
Early Bird Tips: Sign up before September 26 to guarantee you receive your finisher t-shirt and save $5 on admission!
Questions? Have questions about registration, the route, or sponsorship opportunities? Contact our team at hello@fftf.us
Media Notice: By attending this event at Food + Farm Exploration Center, you enter an area where photography, audio, and video recording may occur. These materials may be used by the center for promotional purposes on our website, in email newsletters, and on social media. We appreciate your support in helping us share our educational mission!