On your mark, get set, GLOW! The popular Dash in the Dark 5K fun run is returning to Southampton Common on Saturday 19th September 2026! Starting at 6:00 PM, gather your glow gang and get ready to walk, jog, run, or dance your way around this special night-time mission to raise vital funds for life-saving air ambulance missions across the region.
Event Schedule & Timetable
Key timings for Dash in the Dark Southampton:
- Event Date: Saturday 19th September 2026
- Event Start Time: 6:00 PM BST
- Venue Location: Southampton Common, The Avenue, Southampton (SO15 7NN)
Admission & Registration Details
Ticket pricing and registration details:
- Adult Ticket: £20
- Child Ticket (Ages 5–15): £16
- What’s Included: Free official Dash in the Dark T-shirt, runner number, and a glow-in-the-dark finisher medal upon crossing the finish line.
- Fundraising: Participants are encouraged to set up a fundraising page with a recommended goal of £60 to support Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.
Event Highlights & Experience
What to expect on this night-time mission:
- 5K Glow Route: Walk, jog, run, or dance your way around a safe, illuminated 5K night-time course across Southampton Common.
- Glow Gang Atmosphere: Bright neon clothing, glow sticks, and glowing accessories are strongly encouraged to light up the night.
- Finisher Medal: Collect your exclusive glow-in-the-dark finisher medal at the end of the run.
Venue Amenities & Facilities
Facilities on site at Southampton Common:
- Event Village: Information desk, t-shirt pickup point, and check-in areas located near the main start/finish line.
- Restrooms: Public toilet facilities available on site at the Common.
Accessibility & Special Requirements
Access details for participants and spectators:
- Course Accessibility: The 5K route takes place on wide, paved tarmac paths across Southampton Common, suitable for wheelchair users, pushchairs, and participants of all fitness levels.
- Night Safety: The course is marshaled and marked; headtorches or personal glow lights are recommended.
How to Get to Southampton Common
Travel options for reaching The Avenue (SO15 7NN):
- By Foot / Bike: Multiple pedestrian pathways connect Southampton Common to Portswood, Shirley, and the City Centre. Bike parking stands are available near the Hawthorns Urban Wildlife Centre.
- By Bus: Bluestar routes 1, 2, and 18 stop along The Avenue (A33) right adjacent to the Common.
- By Train: Southampton Central Station is roughly a 20 to 25-minute walk away, or a short 5-minute bus ride.
- By Car: Accessible directly off The Avenue (A33), leading towards the city centre or the M27/M3 motorway links.
Parking Information
Parking options near Southampton Common (SO15 7NN):
- Cemetery Road Car Park (SO15 7NN): Located directly off The Avenue along the southern boundary of the Common.
- On-Street Parking: Pay-and-display on-street bays are available along surrounding residential roads and near University Road.
- Public Transport Encouraged: Due to event popularity and limited parking capacity, participants are encouraged to carpool or use local public transport.
Discover More Local Events
Looking for more exciting things to do across the region? Check out our complete list of What’s On in Southampton to discover the latest charity fun runs, evening events, family activities, and community entertainment near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is Dash in the Dark Southampton taking place?
- The event takes place on Saturday 19th September 2026, starting from 6:00 PM BST.
- Where is the event located?
- Dash in the Dark is held at Southampton Common, The Avenue, Southampton (SO15 7NN).
- How much are tickets for Dash in the Dark?
- Adult entry is £20, and child entry (ages 5–15) is £16.
- What is included with entry?
- Each registered participant receives an official Dash in the Dark T-shirt, a runner number, and a glow-in-the-dark finisher medal upon completion.
- Is there a fundraising target?
- While not strictly mandatory, participants are encouraged to set up a fundraising page with a recommended target of £60 to support Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.
- Is the 5K course accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs?
- Yes, the course takes place entirely on wide, paved tarmac paths across Southampton Common, making it accessible for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
- Where can I park near Southampton Common?
- Parking is available along Cemetery Road Car Park (SO15 7NN) and nearby on-street pay-and-display bays, though public transport is strongly encouraged.