Pig Works x Blink, illuminated by ArtsWave, announces BLINK: Run the Night

(Cincinnati, July 28, 2026) – Join BLINK, illuminated by ArtsWave, and Pig Works for a one-of-a-kind nighttime run through downtown Cincinnati ahead of the nation’s largest public light and art event. This exclusive Tuesday evening event gives participants early access to select BLINK installations, transforming the run into an immersive journey through light, art, music, and creativity.

Be among the very first to experience BLINK 2026 on Tuesday, Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m. before the festival officially begins.

“BLINK is all about experiencing art in unexpected ways, and we're thrilled to add a new way to take in these incredible works with friends and family,” says Leslie Mooney, executive director of BLINK. “It’s a chance to move, celebrate, and see the city in a whole new light.”

Starting at Elm Street Plaza, runners will follow a unique 2.6-mile route experiencing the magic and wonder of BLINK before the crowds arrive. This is not your typical race – it is a chance to move through the city, take in the art, and experience the energy of BLINK in a way few people ever will.

“We’re thrilled to partner with BLINK and welcome runners of all ages for an unforgettable preview of BLINK,” says Doug Olberding, executive director of PigWorks. “This run combines activity, creativity, and excitement, giving participants the chance to be part of the electric energy that makes BLINK so special.”

Registration includes:

• Exclusive early access to select BLINK installations
• A unique 2.6-mile nighttime run through downtown Cincinnati
• Opportunity to collaborate on an interactive art display at Elm Street Plaza
• Commemorative finisher medal
• Bragging rights as one of the first people to experience BLINK 2026

The course route and featured installations will be revealed soon! Space is limited. Register now and Run the Night.

Pig Works is a race experience company with three goals: create fun participatory sporting events for individuals and groups of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds, contribute to charitable causes that support the growth and development of our community here in Cincinnati and beyond, and promote a lifestyle that weaves movement and health into the fiber of our community and extends beyond the bounds of our event days.

Started in 2017, BLINK is a biennial celebration of public art and light that spans the urban core of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. The massive four-day event features 80+ large-scale projection mappings against some of the city’s most iconic architecture, interactive light-based installations in its public spaces and expansive murals across its buildings, all by renowned local, national and international artists. The largest of its kind in the country, the festival’s mission is to nurture a sense of community, connection and inspiration through the medium of public art. In 2024, BLINK spanned 30+ city blocks, crossing the Ohio River into Covington, Kentucky and was experienced by over 2 million people. BLINK is by the artists, for the people. Executive producing partners are the Cincinnati Regional Chamber, AGAR and the Haile Foundation. We welcome all to Cincinnati, Ohio to experience the magic and wonder of BLINK once again October 8-11, 2026.