Running for charity has been an increasingly popular activity the last several years. 
For those students who think getting up for a marathon on the average Saturday morning is painful, The Color Run has managed to add an extra level of fun to these sort of events.
Hosted at several cities around the country, The Color Run declares itself the “The Happiest 5K on the Planet.”
Whether walking or running, participants begin the race dressed in mostly white outfits and look like walking rainbows near the end.
At every half mile, spectators throw dyed powder on nearby runners, adding to the colorful confusion.
Peter Nguyen, sophomore biological sciences major, said he thinks the atmosphere is much more energized than other races.
 ”You see everyone, from kids to the elderly, walking and looking ridiculous. Nobody cares about running; it’s all for the fun,” Nguyen said.
Although most races have a specific cause or charity they contribute to, The Color Run selects a different local charity in each city.
According to The Color Run’s website, the upcoming Tuscaloosa run will donate toward Read Bama Read, whereas the Memphis run will benefit the DeNeuville Learning Center. This is The Color Run’s attempt to give back at the local level to cities hosting the event.
Word is spreading rapidly about The Color Run.
Many Mississippi State students are traveling hours to take part in the festivities.
Olivia Lunsford, junior wildlife and fisheries major, said she is excited for the upcoming Memphis Color Run.
“From what I’ve seen through media portrayal of The Color Run, it’s the uniqueness of the event that appeals to me,” she said.
The event does not just end when participants complete the 5K, either. Participants are welcomed to cheer and “color” others crossing the finish line.
Kelly Bartlett, junior kinesiology major, said she believes The Color Run brings more than the average race.
“It’s for charity, there is pumped-up music and dancing, and it’s messy. You get to take some of the race home with you,” Bartlett said.
Students can get a group of friends, grab their whitest shirts and shoes and register their team in an upcoming run. The Color Run is an event sure to brighten anyone’s day. For details on locations and registration, visit www.thecolorrun.com.