Carl's 5K and Fall Fest

Please join us in celebrating Carl’s life and legacy at Carl’s 5K on October 17, 2026 at 10am!! This year we are celebrating TEN years of Carl! 

Carl was the first cow ever rescued by Iowa Farm Sanctuary.  At two days old, he was taken to a veal sale, as male dairy cows are deemed useless since they cannot produce milk. His tiny body had the number 527 glued to his body.  Too weak to even stand, his surrender was negotiated.  He was so frail and weak that the odds of survival were not in his favor. 

Through relentless care and love, Carl went on to not only survive but thrive at IFS.  He grew into a spunky, rambunctious Holstein, who frequented the attention of volunteers and visitors alike. IFS began celebrating his October birthday with the community, as an opportunity to share his story and for an end-of-season fundraiser. His birthday parties were unforgettable: Imagine 250 people singing to a cow, presenting him a cake and him soaking it all in! He knew that day was ALL about him and he literally was the life of the party!  We suddenly lost Carl in 2021 to a hidden illness that he contracted due to being born into the dairy industry, and life will never be the same again without him here. Celebrating Carl’s birthday has always been one of Iowa Farm Sanctuary’s most cherished traditions. This year would have been Carl’s 10th birthday, but now we celebrate his legacy instead. 

Carl’s 5K will be unlike any race you’ve ever participated in before, as the course will wind around our beautiful sanctuary grounds—our rescued residents cheering you on as you go! You get a 360 degree tour of the sanctuary as part of our course! After you cross the finish line, you can visit with your favorite residents and stroll. 

ALL runners and walkers are welcome!  You do not have to be athletic or fast-- EVERYONE IS WELCOME! Trust us: This event is enjoyed by runners, walkers and strollers alike! We’re also offering a self-timed virtual option for those who cannot join us in person! Registration (both in-person and virtual) includes an exclusive t-shirt, bib, and medal! 

3rd Annual Fall Festival: Carl's celebration has expanded beyond the run/walk! Bring your friends, family, kiddos and join us for pumpkin spice cinnamon rolls, cider and painting pumpkins! Stick around after the race or skip the race and just join us for the festivities!!  Carl loved a good party and we're ready to keep the fun rolling!

We hope you’ll join us in celebration and participation at Carl's 5K and Fall Fest!

Please note: Participants who register after September 23, 2026 will receive their entry, bib, medal and cool race packet. Shirts are not available or included.