(Updated October 21, 2025)
You’ve seen the usual color run advice before…. wear white, bring a towel, take lots of pictures. But after working with hundreds of schools, PTAs, and event planners, we’ve picked up a few tips you haven’t seen all over the internet. These are the little things that make a big difference come race day.
Before race day, test each squeeze bottle or color sprayer. Give them a shake and a squeeze to make sure the powder flows easily. If it’s clogging or coming out in clumps, trim the nozzle slightly or stir up the powder inside. A little prep saves a lot of frustration later.
Humidity can cause color powder to clump over time. Before the big event, open each bottle and make sure the nozzle isn’t blocked. Clean, clear openings make the color spread beautifully (and evenly).
Powder belongs in the air, not in someone’s mouth or eyes. Remind volunteers to aim low, around the torso area. It keeps things fun, safe, and way more photogenic.
Color powder washes off skin and most clothes easily, but it can linger in shoe creases or on certain materials. Go for an older pair you won’t mind getting colorful. Think of them as your “color run keepsakes.”
One of our favorite hacks: set up a “dust-off” area near the finish line. A few towels or a leaf blower help participants brush off before heading home (and it keeps parents much happier).
Skip the fancy new turf or freshly lined track. A grassy field, dirt path, or parking lot is perfect. Our powder rinses away easily with water—but choosing the right spot keeps everyone relaxed and confident from the start.
Send out a reminder a few days before the event. Let families know what to expect, what to wear, and that the color washes out easily. Encourage them to bring a towel for the car ride home, it’s one of those small details that makes you look super prepared.
The biggest cheers (and best photos) always happen at the end. Save a little extra color powder for one final group toss. It’s pure joy—and the moment that ends up on every PTA Instagram.
After the fun is over, a quick leaf blower or broom pass takes care of the rest. Our powder is biodegradable, so youcan also just let nature do the work. If rain’s in the forecast, it’ll be gone before Monday morning.
A color run isn’t just about the colors, it’s the atmosphere. A great playlist, a fun MC, and volunteers cheering along the course make all the difference. The more energy you bring, the more kids (and parents) will remember it.
Hosting a color run doesn’t have to be complicated… it’s all about preparation, communication, and keeping the fun in focus. These little tips can turn an ordinary event into something your students, parents, and staff talk about for years.
Need help planning your next color run? Check out our Color Run Calculator or grab our Color Powder Planning Guide to make it easy from start to finish.
