Minions Tim, Tom, and Stuart, the heroes behind the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem ride, are currently training for their first-ever 5K Minion Run, and you are invited to join them! The 5K Minion Run is kicking off on May 11th at Universal Studios Hollywood, and it’s the first race in what is to become the theme park’s Running Universal series.
Due to its popularity Universal Studios Hollywood has added a second date to to its first-ever 5 K Minion Run. Event Dates are Saturday, May 11th and Sunday, May 12th.
Participants of all experience levels, ages 5 and up, will be able to run through Universal Studios Hollywood and parts of Universal Studios’ historic backlot. Along the course, runners will be able to meet with Universal Studios Hollywood characters, including the Minions.
When entering the backlot, runners will be immersed in the world of movie-making, passing the eerie War of the Worlds set and Hitchcock’s Psycho house. Not all the encounters will be scary, though, as runners will also be able to enjoy the backdrop of Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Who knows, there might even be a Who or Two and the sassy Grinch himself!
The 3.1-mile course starts at the Universal Studios Hollywood front gate and ends at the Universal CityWalk 5 Towers, Universal’s state-of-the-art concert venue.
Runners and their guests are encouraged to dress as their favorite characters, and service animals are welcome at this event. The race starts at 6 a.m. and ends at 7:30 a.m. with an awards ceremony.
The basic package is $75 and includes a collectible Minion 5K finisher medal, a bib with timing chip, a T-shirt, a Minion pin, post-race refreshments, complimentary general parking, a customized digital finisher’s certificate, and the opportunity to purchase theme park tickets at an exclusive price. Upgrade to the VIP package for $135 and receive all of the above plus VIP check-in, complimentary valet parking, post-race breakfast, a Running Universal water bottle, and a one-on-one meet-and-great with minions.
Non-running family members and friends can purchase access to the viewing area at the finish line on CityWalk. The $45 package includes access to the spectator zone, a Minion baseball cap and drawstring bag, and complimentary refreshments.
Ready, Set, Train and More 5K Minion Run Details
Corrals open at 5 a.m., and free parking at the E.T. parking garage is available for registered runners on race day. Vehicles must enter the garage by 5:30 a.m. to be eligible for free parking. After that time, standard parking fees apply. The race starts at 6 a.m. and takes place rain or shine. Runners must maintain a 17-minute mile pace.
Do not bring bags, as they are not permitted on the race course. If you do bring bags, you may leave them in lockers located at CityWalk next to Hot Topics. The lockers are available for a fee. Runners must leave their belongings behind prior to entering the security checkpoint before the start of the race.
Training tips are available and so is a course map. Space is limited, so register here to reserve your spot in this brand-new race through Universal Studios Hollywood.
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