Colour Run - FAQs

The colour powder paint is non-toxic, corn starch, 100% safe and biodegradable.  It is technically edible, although we do not advise that you eat it, as it’s not very tasty! If you have a skin allergy or respiratory condition, we recommend that you don’t take part or that you consult your doctor for advice. Powder paints are 100% natural and water soluble and used across the globe in the Hindu Holi Festivals. Read more details on the product safety information sheet.

The paint will only be thrown in our 5 designated stations. The paint will be aimed onto the body of the runners rather than the face to reduce the amount of paint getting into the mouth, nose and eyes. You will inevitably get some paint on your head / face, but runners who are not so keen to be in the direct firing line of the colour throwers are recommended to keep to the inside of the running lane (or avoid the zoned area completely) to receive the least amount of paint. If you have concerns about breathing in the colour, we recommend that you bring a face mask or a bandana to wear. 

The paint is 100% natural and water soluble and will not cause any damage to the environment. No paint will be brushed into any drains.  If it has been raining, please slow down in the colour stations to avoid slipping on powder paint. Please stay aware of any other slip and trip hazards to avoid injury e.g. slopes and uneven ground. Marshals will be in place to assist.

Come along wearing running gear you don’t mind getting messy! Well-fitting trainers are recommended but please don’t wear your expensive ones as they will end up every colour of the rainbow. The coloured pigment should wash out of most fabrics but please wear clothes that you don’t mind getting stained…just in case. After testing the paint, we know that white is never white again after being colour splatted. The paint is water soluble so you can wash the clothes as normal, but avoid washing it with your nicest clothes. As with anything dirty, the sooner you wash it the better. 

At the finish line we will have a cleaning station with soft brushes so that you can give yourself a good dusting off to remove most of the powder. You won’t be 100% clean but you will be able to remove most of the powder paint.  The University of Bristol and Students’ Union will not be liable for any damage caused.  Access to buildings will be restricted until you have cleaned and changed. 

Yes, spectators are very welcome. We do advise spectators to keep a good distance from the colour stations as we cannot accept responsibility for them accidently being showered in powder paint. 

You do not need to be an experienced runner to take part; you can walk, jog or run the route. If you really want, you can even do it 3-legged with a friend, as it is not about speed but more about having as much fun as possible! The event is not timed, so for the more competitive runners - this isn’t a race, but an inclusive and fun run.

Please note there is limited parking on site. Therefore, we recommend where possible that attendees make use of public transport. 

Where possible we advise you to use the frequent and accessible public transport. Some options are listed below;

• Number 3 - stops right outside Coombe Dingle Sports Complex.
• Number 4 - stops at Queens Gate, just an 11 minute walk from Coombe Dingle Sports Complex.
• Number 1 - stops at Brecon road, a 15 minute walk from Coombe Dingle Sports Complex.
• U1 bus - This service stops at the North Village terminus, which is a 19 minute walk to Coombe Dingle Sports Complex. The U1 is a free bus service for first-year students in university halls of residence. 
• Visit the First bus webpage for timetables and route information