Outrun The Night - Challenge

Outrun the Night: A Midnight Running Challenge
Event Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026 | 7pm - 7am
Location: Dalkeith Country Park, Edinburgh
Step into the heart of Scotland's night for Outrun the Night, a unique and thrilling challenge that takes place in the enchanting surroundings of Dalkeith Country Park. This event offers runners an unparalleled opportunity to explore the park’s winding trails under the cover of darkness.
### The Challenge
Outrun the Night is designed as a 12-hour running adventure where participants can choose their own distance by completing multiple laps around a scenic 5km loop within the designated timeframe. Whether you aim for your first night trail run, strive to hit the half marathon mark, or push yourself towards an ultra-distance goal, this event welcomes all levels of runners.
### Course Details
The course features varied terrain, including woodland trails and roads that wind through the park’s lush landscape. Runners can expect complete darkness from dusk till dawn, with uneven ground, exposed roots, and changing conditions underfoot making each lap unique and challenging. The route is fully marked to guide participants safely throughout their journey.
### Event Schedule
- 4:30 PM: Registration opens at base camp on the Palace Lawn.
- 6:45 PM: Mandatory race briefing for all runners.
- 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM: The challenge officially begins with a festive atmosphere provided by live music and event staff.
### Base Camp
After each lap, participants return to the base camp located on the Palace Lawn at Dalkeith Palace. Here, they can rest, refuel, and store equipment in one tent or gazebo (up to 3m x 3m). Solo runners are allowed up to three support crew members while teams of two or four have access to a maximum of two support crew members each.
### Mandatory Equipment
To ensure safety during the event:
- A working headtorch with spare batteries or an additional light.
- Fully charged mobile phone for emergency use.
- Suitable trail footwear and clothing appropriate for nighttime conditions.
Participants without proper lighting will not be permitted on the course after dark.
### What's Provided at Base Camp?
Base camp offers essential amenities such as drinking water, hot water for instant food preparation, basic carbohydrates and snacks. Runners can also access toilets, professional medical support, a staffed base camp area, music to keep spirits high throughout the night, and a bag-drop facility. However, there will be no food vendors on site; runners are advised to bring their own meals, fuel, reusable cups or bottles.
### Event Atmosphere
The event is designed not only for athletes but also for spectators who wish to cheer from base camp under the glow of ambient lighting and live music provided by Momentm Events. Music at base camp must be kept respectful in volume while adding to the overall party atmosphere that permeates throughout the night.
### Important Notes
- Location and Parking: Base camp is situated on the Palace Lawn, Dalkeith Country Park (EH22 2NA). Participants are advised to park along Dalkeith High Street or nearby public parking areas as there's no participant parking within the park.

- Refunds and Transfers: Refund options vary depending on when you register:
- Up to 8 weeks before: Full refund available
- Up to 4 weeks before: Transferable entry to another eligible Momentm Events race
- Up to 7 days before: Entry transferable to another runner
### Prizes and Recognition
Top performers will be rewarded with free entries into the upcoming Burgh Backyard event, along with a running-shop voucher for first-place male and female runners.
Join Outrun the Night this Halloween weekend as you challenge yourself in one of Scotland's most scenic parks. Experience the thrill of night trail running under starlit skies while immersing yourself in an unforgettable community atmosphere.