The Rainbow Run in Wānaka on November 22 will officially launch this year’s Summerdaze programme.

Summerdaze is a series of fun events organised or supported by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) in the summer months that aims to bring the community together. 

The 2024/25 edition will include the return of the Rainbow Run, the Summerdaze Picnic & BBQ in the Park series, and the signature Teddy Bears Picnics with ‘Stride, Ride and Slide’.

QLDC community partnerships advisor wellbeing Samantha Saccomanno said Summerdaze is all about community connection and wellbeing and enjoying the beauty of our district.

“It’s the fifth year of the Summerdaze programme and we’re excited to offer a number of exciting, family-friendly community events ... make sure you get along to have some fun,” she said.

The Night ‘n Day Rainbow Run, organised by Sport Central and QLDC, will be held at Eely Point on November 22, starting at 5pm, and Sport Central community sport advisor Jo Knight is excited to have the event back on the calendar.

“What better way to say hello to summer than a 5km fun run or walk while being colour-bombed by five different corn starch stations,” she said. “I challenge friends, family and flatmates to get together, dress up in black or white and have a blast.”

“The local fire brigade will be on hand to douse participants near the start of the run to make the colours stick better, and we have volunteers and supporters joining QLDC in staffing the stations.”

The Summerdaze Picnic & BBQ in the Park will feature free BBQs, a games trailer, sports activities, face painting, a library pop-up tent, and QLDC’s elected members in attendance.

The Teddy Bears Picnics will feature much of the same with a greater focus on entertainment for young children and toddlers – including the much-loved Stride, Ride and Slide events. 

More information on Teddy Bears Picnics will be released in January.

PHOTO: Wānaka App