NBC's The Office might've ended over a decade ago, but that doesn't mean the hardcore fans have gone anywhere. Instead, we've spent the last 11 years rewatching the seasons, checking out Peacock's superfan episodes, dressing up as our favorite characters for Halloween, and, of course, geeking out with other fans. Whether it be cheers-ing our coffee with our "World Best Boss" mugs or playing a fun game of themed Monopoly, fans have truly rallied around each other to keep this fantastic fandom alive.
The Office fans come together for themed run in Scranton
Other awesome examples of The Office fandom still thriving today are events to bring fans from all over the country (and even world!) together. One event that might just catch your fancy is this year's 5k run in Scranton, Pennsylvania, the home of Dunder Mifflin. The race is The Office-themed, of course, and will take place on Saturday, May 4, 2024. Check out the official website with this link.
This is the third year the Lackawanna Valley has hosted the hilarious and rewarding 5k. And don't worry, the proceeds don't go to rabies awareness like Michael Scott's "Fun Run" in The Office. This real-life 5k collects proceeds for a local non-profit called Valley In Motion, which works to improve the community of Lackawanna Valley. You can check out the organization right here.
If you want to register for the race this May, all you have to do is follow the link here to register. Entry for the 5k race will cost you $25 (plus a $2.50 signup fee), and they also have an option for a 1-mile walk which will also cost you $25 (plus a $2.50 signup fee). If you happen to be in the area, we'd totally recommend participating in The Office 5k. Why not spend time with fellow fans while also getting some exercise in?
The team behind The Office 5k was generous enough to send us images from previous runs, which you can check out below. Try not to laugh at some of these amazing stills!
If you're blanking on the connection between a 5k race and The Office, you're probably forgetting the season 4 episode "Fun Run," in which Michael attempts to organize a race for charity after he accidentally hits Meredith with his car. When Meredith is at the hospital, she gets a shot for rabies because of the bat bite she got in a previous episode. Feeling like he should fix the situation, Michael tries to look good by organizing something for Meredith, but, in typical Michael fashion, it's not exactly the right thing to do.
Michael decides he'll organize a "Fun Run" for the office, with proceeds going to rabies awareness. Whatever that means. Nonetheless, the race turns out to be a hilarious turn of events, especially when Michael believes he should eat carbs right before his run. While Toby finishes first, other employees take the race a lot less seriously, with Jim and Pam going to a yard sale. Other memorable moments include Andy's nipples bleeding due to chafing and Michael ending up in the hospital after not drinking any water. As with most episodes of The Office, "Fun Run" is one for the books.
Can't make The Office 5k but want to follow along with this year's event? Be sure to follow the group on Facebook and on Instagram!