Bloomingdale Gazette, Gazette

Run (or Walk) with the Bulls: Bloomingdale Band’s 5K is Back and Bigger Than Ever

Get your sneakers ready — the Bloomingdale Band Boosters is once again hosting the Running of the Bulls 5K, and this year’s event is shaping up to be the biggest yet. Mark your calendar: Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Bloomingdale High School (1700 E. Bloomingdale Ave, Valrico). Registration is officially live. (BSHS Band)

Why Everyone Should Join

Whether you’re a seasoned runner, a casual walker, or just looking for a fun way to support a great cause, Running of the Bulls is for you. Participants in the full 5K receive a race shirt — and finishers earn a medal. If 5K is more than you want, there’s also a ½-mile fun run/walk on the track, with a medal for participants (no shirt for the shorter distance). (RunSignup)

All proceeds benefit the Bloomingdale High School band program and help fund scholarships for seniors — so you’re literally helping raise music vibes and support local students with every step. (RunSignup)

A Much Bigger Turnout This Year

Here’s the kicker: signups are already about double what they were last year. That means this year’s race won’t just be an event — it’s going to be huge. For the band department, that boost matters big time: more runners = more support for student musicians, scholarships, and future band events.

How to Sign Up

Easy. Head to the Bloomingdale Band website’s Running of the Bulls page and click “Register Today!” — the link takes you to the live registration page. (BSHS Band)

Or go directly to the registration page on RunSignup: look for “Running of the Bulls 5k — Jan 17, 2026.” You can choose the 5K or the ½-mile fun run, pay the registration fee, and you’re set. (RunSignup)

If you’ve got questions, you can email the race organizers at the contact listed on the site (or call the high school number provided). (BSHS Band)

Why This Is More Than Just a Race

Running of the Bulls is one of those neighborhood traditions that brings together families, students, alumni, casual runners — anyone who wants to be part of something bigger than themselves. It’s not just charity, not just fitness, not just community spirit — it’s all three. With nearly double the sign-ups this year, the Rajun’ Bull Band and the larger Bloomingdale community are clearly rallying behind that spirit.

Even if you walk a slow lap or run hard, you’re making a difference — and showing support for one of Bloomingdale’s most enduring programs. Lace up, show up, and let’s make this 5K something to remember.