Unique Wisconsin ‘Happy Little 5K’ Draws Inspiration From Bob Ross

How's this for an interesting 5K idea?

The legendary "Happy Painter" Bob Ross left behind a pop culture legacy through his TV show, The Joy of Painting. While making painting look way easier than it actually is (at least in my opinion), he coined the phrase "happy little trees" among other happy objects in his paintings.

Pulling inspiration from that phrase - and even getting approval from his estate - there is a 5K event Wisconsinites can participate in, with the end goal being more "happy little trees" being planted in Wisconsin.

The official name for the event is "Run for the Trees: Happy Little 5K", and Wisconsin is actually one of a number of states participating in this fundraising 5K, with proceeds going to tree-planting and other forest protection efforts like management of invasive plants and insects in state forests, parks, and recreation areas.

READ MORE: Wisconsin's 10 Best State Parks, According To Visitor Reviews

As the Wisconsin DNR explains, this is a virtual 5K, which means you can participate from anywhere. The important note is to select the correct participating state you'd like to see your registration fee benefit.

Wisconsin is one of 17 states you can choose to support by participating in this virtual 5K.

Each participant gets a keepsake t-shirt, commemorative bib number, a finisher's medal, and a Run for the Trees sticker. In case you're curious, yes! Bob Ross is on all of the goodies!

Participants can register now, with the Wisconsin DNR asking to please complete registration by April 1 to make sure your participation packet can be mailed to you in time.

The participation window for this virtual 5K is from April 18 through April 26, 2026. This happens to include both Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 24). Participants can walk, run, scooter, bicycle, skate, or use a mobility device to participate in this event, so it is accessible to most people to enjoy!

You may notice that the registration page has references to the Michigan DNR, which is another participating state in this event. That's because Wisconsin's neighbor to the east started this event in 2019, teaming up with Bob Ross Inc. for this officially sanctioned event. Over the years, it has grown to include Wisconsin and several other states.

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If you want more information or to register, you can see what the Wisconsin DNR has to say about the event here, and register for the event here.