The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Explorers Post 245 will host its third annual 5K Color Run/Walk on March 28, 2026, at 9 a.m. on the Northwest Florida State College campus at 1170 MLK Jr. Blvd. in Fort Walton Beach.

• The non-competitive event is designed purely for fun, with no awards or race timing. Participants will be doused with colored chalk by Explorers and Sheriff’s Office volunteers throughout the 5K route, with the goal of being covered in color by the time they cross the finish line.

Registration is $25 per participant, and the event is open to all ages. Proceeds will fund the Explorers program and send participating youth to a weeklong state competition in June, where they will compete against other Explorer posts throughout Florida.

The Explorers program serves young people ages 12-21, teaching them about law enforcement, community roles and life skills. The program aims to help participants develop into responsible community members. 

“I highly recommend that if you are not busy on March 28, 2026, you should come to this 5K,” said Deputy Sheriff Mandie George of the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office.

The event will feature local vendors and two food trucks. Explorers will be available throughout the day to answer questions about the program and opportunities for youth involvement.

• Registration is available here. 

For questions about participation or sponsorship opportunities, contact ablanton@sheriff-okaloosa.org.