Platter's Sweetens Charity Run with 8th Annual Sponge Candy 5K & Walk to Benefit Tri-Community Ambulance Services

NORTH TONAWANDA, NY – September 27, 2025 – Dust off your running shoes and prepare your sweet tooth! Platter's Chocolate Factory is set to host its 8th Annual Sponge Candy 5K and 1-Mile Fun Walk on Saturday, September 27, 2025, an eagerly anticipated event designed to raise vital funds for Tri-Community Ambulance Services.

Billed as "one event you don't want to miss," this unique race combines fitness with a celebration of Platter's beloved sponge candy, all while supporting a crucial local service. The course, USATF Certified #NY15045, will start on Ohio Street and finish dramatically in front of Platter's Chocolate Factory in the newly renovated Wurlitzer Building at 908 Niagara Falls Blvd, North Tonawanda.

The 1-Mile Fun Walk kicks off at 3:00 PM, offering a leisurely option for families and casual participants. Following shortly after, "The Run for Sponge" 5K race will begin at 3:30 PM.

"This is our eighth year hosting the Sponge Candy 5K, and it's truly become a cornerstone event for our community," says Sydney Watters, event organizer for Platter's Chocolate Factory. "It’s a fantastic way to bring people together, enjoy some delicious sponge candy, and most importantly, contribute to the incredible work of Tri Community Ambulance Services."

Registration and Participant Perks: Online registration remains open until the start of the race. Race day registration and packet pickup will be available inside the Wurlitzer Building from 1:00 p.m. until the beginning of the race. For convenience, an early packet pickup option is also available on Friday, September 26, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Platter's.

Registration fees are set at $35 for those who sign up between May 15 and July 31. From September 1 through race day, the fee will be $40. Participants who register by September 16, 2025, at 9:00 AM are guaranteed an official Sponge Candy 5K t-shirt in their requested size. Those registering after this date will receive a shirt on a first-come, first-served basis, if available.

All participants will receive a well-deserved treat of Platter’s famous sponge candy at the finish line, along with refreshing fruit, snacks, and bottled water.

A Week of Sweet Fun: The festivities extend beyond race day, with a basket raffle benefiting Tri Community Ambulance Services running throughout the week. The event also coincides with National Sponge Candy Day, promising samples of the factory's iconic treat. Fan-favorite mascot, Sammy Sponge, will be on hand for photos before, during, and after the race, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere.

Post-Race Celebration: The celebration continues immediately after the race with an awards ceremony, prizes, and giveaways. All race participants and supporters are invited to join. For those looking to extend the fun, Fattey Beer Co. - Wurlitzer, located right next door, will host live music starting at 6:00 PM.

Awards: Platter's Chocolate Factory gift baskets will be awarded to the 1st-place overall male 5K, 1st-place overall female 5K, and 1st-place overall 14 & under 5K finishers. Custom race medals will be presented to the top three male and female 5K runners in each of the following age groups: 14 and under, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, and 80 and older.

Logistics: Plenty of free parking will be available at the Wurlitzer Building, with overflow parking at Walmart. Professional timing and finish line services, including real-time results via the FREE ITSYourRace Mobile App, kiosks, and online platforms, will be provided by Race Management Solutions. Participants can also view and share free finish line photos and download custom finisher certificates.

Please note that there will be no refunds. In the event of foul weather, public safety concerns, or other necessary reasons, organizers reserve the right to postpone, reschedule, modify, or offer a virtual alternative.

For additional information on the race or sponsorship opportunities, please get in touch with Sydney Watters at sydney@platterschocolate.com or 716-389-3050.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to support a vital local service while enjoying a day filled with fitness, chocolate, and community spirit!

About Platter's Chocolate Factory: A beloved WNY institution, Platter's Chocolate Factory has been crafting delicious chocolates and treats for generations. Located in the historic Wurlitzer Building in North Tonawanda, Platter's is known for its iconic sponge candy and commitment to community engagement.

About Tri Community Ambulance Services: Tri Community Ambulance Services provides essential emergency medical services to the communities it serves, relying on community support to continue its life-saving work.