The Gray Ghost Run is Serious Fun
The Anoka Gray Ghost Run has been an Anoka Halloween tradition since 1985. Whether you’re a serious runner or just want to have some fun in front of more than 25,000 Grand Day Parade spectators, the Gray Ghost is serious fun.
Date: Saturday, October 25th, 2025
Bib Pick Up is at Anoka Clothing Company October 17-24th
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Anoka Clothing Company -
112 East Main St, Anoka, MN, 55303
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Hours
Mon: 12-4pm
Tues-Fri: 10-6pm
Sat: 10-5pm
Sun: 12-4pm
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Race Day: Saturday, Oct 25th
Race Start: 12:45PM
Important Race Day Info
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The race starts at 12:45 sharp
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Get into Anoka early. The city will start shutting down roads into town before noon.
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There is NO BAG CHECK - Please leave valuables at home and extra clothes in your car.
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Understand the parking tips below. Parking is very challenging in Anoka on this day. Don't be surprised if you need to park a mile+ away from the start. To compound matters, the construction on Hwy 10 will slow things down. Another reason to get an early start!
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To enter the Costume Contest, locate a Volunteer with a sign that says Costume Contest at the start. They will take your picture and you will be entered. Make sure your race number is visible. They will be near the Main Mauer lot across from the Legion.
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Have a Great Run!
TIPS TO AVOID THE PARKING NIGHTMARE!
MINIMUM PACE REQUIREMENT
DONT GET CAUGHT BY THE GRAY GHOST!
Because runners are the first part of the parade, we are expected to move swiftly ahead of the parade itself. Meanwhile in the neighborhoods of Anoka we need to clear the streets as soon as quickly as we reasonably can. To remind runners of this there will be 2 people carrying the Gray Ghost sign and if you get caught, you either need to speed up or remove yourself from the roadway. ​
Course Map
Frequently asked questions
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Q: What are the costume contest details?
A: The costume contest categories will be the following. To enter find a volunteer near the start and get your picture taken. Make sure your bib is visible.
Costume contest categories:
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Best Group Costume
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Best Couple Costume
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Best Kid Costume
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Best Individual Costume
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Q: Can I bring my pet on the race course?
A: Fido will have to sit this on out. Animals are not allowed on the race course for their safety and the safety of other participants.
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Q: Are strollers allowed on the course?
A: Yes, strollers are allowed. We ask anyone with a stroller to go to the back of the start line for their safety when the race starts.
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Q: If I can't make it to the race, can I get a refund?
A: There is a no refund policy. You can still pick up your shirt prior to the race at the Anoka Clothing Company.
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