SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Conservation Foundation (ICF), in partnership with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), invites Illinoisans to celebrate Earth Day and Arbor Day by participating in the Run for the Trees: Happy Little 5K, a nationwide virtual event inspired by the PBS series “The Joy of Painting” featuring the late painter Bob Ross.
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Participants can complete a 5K course on their own schedule anytime from April 18-26, 2026, a week that includes Earth Day on April 22 and Arbor Day on April 24. Participants can run, walk, hike, bike, paddle, skate or roll 3.1 miles outdoors.
Individuals and families are encouraged to explore their favorite Illinois state parks, local trails and natural areas while supporting forest conservation efforts. When registering, participants can select Illinois, directing a portion of the $36 registration fee to support tree planting, forest stewardship and invasive species management in Illinois state parks.
Participants will receive a Happy Little T-shirt, commemorative bib number, finisher’s medal and event sticker, while joining thousands of nature lovers across the country celebrating Bob Ross’ legacy and appreciation for the outdoors.
Support Illinois state parks by registering at ilconservation.org/happylittle5k. Registration is open through April 1 or until the event sells out.
“Illinois state parks protect some of the most important forests and natural landscapes in our state,” said Natalie Phelps Finnie, director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. “Money raised from this event supports work people can see and experience — planting trees, removing invasive species and helping keep Illinois forests healthy for future generations.”
“There's something special about spending time in a forest and knowing you helped protect or restore it,” said Jenny Vaughn, executive director of the Illinois Conservation Foundation. “This event is a fun way for people to get outside, celebrate nature and support conservation in Illinois.”
About the Illinois Conservation Foundation
The Illinois Conservation Foundation is the official nonprofit partner of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Through private support, the foundation helps expand conservation, outdoor recreation and education opportunities across Illinois.
