I agree with you littleash... I won't be going mainly because I don't have kids (pretty big factor in that one!), but most fundraising events that I've attended have been relatively cheap with the idea that people tend to spend more by staying longer due to the prices (how many people have hosted a "free" car wash with the idea that people give more when a set price isn't attached?? I have!). I agree that this is a great cause, however at those prices I'd rather just donate my money straight out which isn't what the event is about. I think we are all in agreement that this is a great cause but the quality of the fundraiser is lacking. Fewer people are being reached out too (i.e. people with no kids since it appears this is focusing around families, and there won't be runners reaching out for sponsors that live outside of daybreak and are unaware of the event), and over priced activities will cause fewer people to stay awhile meaning pockets won't be as deep.
Like Don said, only time will tell to how successful the event is without the 5k. I hope it maintains the same amount as last year at the very least, but I'm not so sure.