Hundreds of people were seen doing donuts at an alarmingly calm speed around Palmer Lake on the last Sunday of September. No cars were involved, but pastries were consumed at the 11th annual Palmer Lake .5K.

The tongue-in-cheek half-kilometer fun run once again drew a big crowd for a morning of laughter, costumes and community spirit. Participants made their way around the short course, stopping halfway through for a donut before crossing the finish line, where much-needed beer and soda awaited.

Many runners leaned into the playful nature of the event with creative costumes. Among the highlights were government agents accompanied by aliens, a group dressed as the Scooby-Doo gang and plenty of costumed pups. Some people were even lucky enough to find Waldo in the crowd.

The event also serves a purpose beyond fun, raising money for Awake Palmer Lake, the nonprofit dedicated to preserving and improving the community.

Volunteers and organizers said the lighthearted race has grown into a beloved town tradition that celebrates togetherness and humor as much as exercise.

“This is about bringing people together and having fun,” one volunteer said as the final runners made their way across the finish line.

Leanne Hemmingway, a volunteer who helped pour drinks at the finish line, said the energy was contagious.

“It was so much fun!” she said. “I love seeing all the costumes that come by.”

Organizers confirmed the Palmer Lake .5K is likely to return next year, promising more donuts, more costumes and the same offbeat community spirit.