The Big Little Run

The Big Little Run is an annual charity 5K, 10K, and half marathon hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Guelph at Guelph Lake Conservation Area in Guelph, Ontario. Held on a Sunday morning each year -- moving to late September for the 2026 edition -- the event raises funds for the organization's youth mentoring programs, with all proceeds from registration and fundraising supporting local Big Brothers Big Sisters programming. Runners choose between three courses: a 5K on paved, gravel, and grassy paths with lake views and short hills, suitable for all levels and open to walkers; a 10K on gravel and paved roads that extends out to the Guelph Lake Dam over hillier terrain; and a half marathon that circles more of the lake's perimeter on mixed surfaces past farmland, the toughest of the three courses. Every finisher receives a custom race bib, chip timing with official results, a finisher medal, and a goody bag, and race day includes a new Wellness Village with vendor booths and on-site services from event partner Natural Choice Medical Clinic. The race has run in various forms since at least 2021, growing into one of Guelph's regular community running events while keeping its focus on funding one-to-one youth mentoring.