Runners, walkers of all ages encouraged to sign up for Second Annual Viking 5K on Nov. 14 with free registration underway
Article by: Richard Guerrero, Jr.
Event officially kick-starts Viking Fest 2026 scheduled on Windward Campus; Viking Fest 5K also includes Kids 1K Fun Run and first 400 registered participants receiving a participation medal
Are you ready to trot across Del Mar College’s Windward Campus when the Viking Horn sounds? The Second Annual Viking 5K Run/Walk will be here before you know it, so be sure to register now and secure your spot on the starting line.
The Viking 5K is a signature event during Viking Fest, which is scheduled Saturday, Nov. 14, at the Windward Campus located at 4101 Old Brownsville Rd. in Corpus Christi (78405). The Viking 5K is one of the biggest free community races in the Coastal Bend and serves as the official kickoff to DMC’s Third Annual Viking Fest, which runs from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.
The event starts with the Kids 1K Fun Run beginning at 9 a.m. rain or shine, followed by the Viking 5K Run/Walk at 9:15 a.m. Last year, more than 1,000 runners and walkers participated, and organizers are excited to bring the Viking 5K back even bigger in 2026. Whether chasing a personal best, walking with friends or bringing the entire family, register now to secure your spot on the starting line.
Participants will receive an exclusive Viking 5K Del Mar College thermal cup, which will be awarded at the end of the race, and the first 400 registered participants will receive a participation medal. Runners, walkers and other event completers of all ages and experience levels are welcome to participate at their own pace. Organizers are holding a best male and female Viking costume competition (see details and guidelines).
“We’re excited to bring back the Viking 5K for a second year and continue building a tradition that brings our students, employees, and the broader Coastal Bend community together,” said Jason Houlihan, Del Mar College executive director of marketing & events. “Whether you’re an experienced runner, a casual walker or a family looking for a fun morning, there’s something for everyone. It’s a great way to kick off Viking Fest, enjoy our Windward Campus and celebrate the community that makes Del Mar College special.”
After the race, participants are encouraged to stick around for one of Del Mar College’s biggest community celebrations of the year, Viking Fest, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. featuring the Fifth Annual Día de los Muertos Welding Competition.
Enjoy food trucks and local vendors, a massive industrial and workforce showcase, hands-on career and program demonstrations and interactive displays featuring high-demand careers, along with opportunities to explore Del Mar College programs that prepare students for Coastal Bend careers and beyond.
More details about Viking Fest are coming soon, but for now, register and get your running or walking shoes ready for the 2026 Viking 5K Run/Walk.
Questions? For more details and event coordination, contact Executive Director of Marketing & Events Jason Houlihan at jhouliha@delmar.edu or 361-698-6528.
KEY INFO:
• Saturday, Nov. 14, 9 to 10:30 a.m., Viking 2026 5K Run/Walk.
• SAVE THE DATE: Nov. 14, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Third Annual Viking Fest at Del Mar College.
• Location: Del Mar College Windward Campus, 4101 Old Brownsville Rd. (78405), get online directions and a campus map.
• Cost: Free registration for the 5K, free admission for Viking Fest, with food and vendor items available for purchase. Registration for the 5K is available at events.delmar.edu/event/delmar.events.1839865.
• Questions? For more details and event coordination, contact Executive Director of Marketing & Events Jason Houlihan at jhouliha@delmar.edu or 361-698-6528. Or visit the Viking Fest 2026 website at delmar.edu/vikingfest/.
Del Mar College empowers students to achieve their dreams. We offer quality programs, individual attention, outstanding instruction through faculty with real-world experience and affordable costs to credit and noncredit students in Corpus Christi and the South Texas Coastal Bend area. Nationally recognized while locally focused, we’re ranked in the top two percent of community colleges in the country granting associate degrees to Hispanic students (Community College Week). Del Mar College focuses on offering our students programs that match current or emerging career opportunities. Whether students are interested in the fine arts, sciences, business, occupational or technical areas, students get the education they need for the future they want at Del Mar College.
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