Gustavo Escanelle

Red Dress Run 2022

21:00 August 13, 2022
By: Zoe Lang

I "Ran" NOLA's Red Dress Race


Last Saturday, I took part in one of New Orleans' most famous traditions: the Red Dress Run.

Every year, participants come from all over to "compete" in the race. The event originally started during the 1980's, with one woman's decision to adorn a red dress at a course in San Diego. Now, the run exists as more of a celebration than a contest. Thousands of people gather in red dresses, rushing and dancing through the streets of New Orleans with their drinks of choice. Proceeds from the race are donated to several non-profits in the city.

My Race Experience

The "runners" gathered at the starting line at 9:30 a.m., all with extravagant dresses and gowns. There was music, laughter and lots of beer to go around- the perfect start to a 5k! At around 10:30 we took off as a second line of red dresses wandering through the streets of the French Quarter. People came from all over the city to cheer us on, every step of the way. After a mile of yelling and dancing, more beers were handed out and the race continued.

Crossing the finish line was bittersweet, as I didn't want the celebrations to end. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that the Red Dress Run doesn't just end with the race. It continues on through the night, as runners and observers alike party through the streets and start gearing up for next year's fun!


Head to NOLA for the Red Dress Run 2023!



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