

Last weekend, I had the chance to attend Universal Studios Hollywood’s Minion Run, marking the inaugural Running Universal series coming to the theme park. The 5K gave runners a chance to run through such historic areas as the backlot while also posing for pictures with the Minions along the route. Participating in the run were 11,000 runners and walkers, marking this first year a successful venture for Universal Studios Hollywood.

Though we didn’t get the chance to see the race in its full capacity, we were able to be at the starting line and finish line to not only capture the smiles on the runner’s faces but to also see the incredibly creative costumes that were made for the event. Even though we didn’t get to see the meat of the race, the runners got the chance to “pass through some of the theme park’s immersive areas and attractions before winding their way along the historic backlot and into the magical world of movie-making as they head towards the finish line at CityWalk’s 5 Towers outdoor concert stage. Highlights along the way included the Psycho House, the eerie War of the Worlds set and the colorful Who-ville backdrop from Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.”

When we arrived at 5am, runners had already lined up at the iconic front gates of Universal Studios, and though I was still rubbing the sleep out of my eyes, the runners all seemed hyped ready to go. What was surprising to me was in the throng of runners/walkers, I was able to find some horror in a sea of yellow Minions. The first was a woman who had decided to dress as the Bride of Frankenstein and the second was two friends dressed as Velma and Daphne from Scooby-Doo (check out our Instagram for photos of the event!). Furthermore, there were a few people dressed as Gru, the anti-hero from Despicable Me.

As each runner crossed the finish line after completing the 3.1-mile course, they received a commemorative limited-edition Minion medallion that featured a Minion running through the finish-line holding two bananas (which also spun). There was also awards and a closing ceremony as well as music, dancing Minions, and photo opportunities for the racers. Sound like a blast? You better believe it was and if you didn’t get to participate this go-around don’t fret because the Running Universal series will be returning this Fall (sometime in November) with a brand-new 5K theme: Jurassic Park! So hold onto your butts as more information is revealed in the coming months!
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- [Interview] Eli Roth for THANKSGIVING (2023) - November 16, 2023
Did a lot of people walk? I know it’s timed so maybe walking wouldn’t be doable.