The Minnesota Brewery Running Series hosts fun, family friendly run/walks at breweries across the state many weekends of the year. They are a welcoming and inclusive group, operating events that are fun for the speed demons and families out for a stroll with a beer chaser. It’s a non-intimidating was to be active and try some tasty brews.

This was a fun virtual event and the swag was amazing for a free race! I loved the arm sleeves and tote bag. The medal was great too. While nothing will take the place of in person races, this was a great excuse to push my pace in a 10k. It was just a bit tricky to figure out how to submit results, but I managed to find it my second time clicking around.

This is a great excuse to get up and moving on Thanksgiving. It’s totally family friendly. Bring the kids, strollers, dogs etc. The course runs through neighborhoods, along paved trails and on the Mississippi Riverfront before returning to downtown Hastings, finishing near a number of local watering holes if you want to grab a bloody before heading off to your day’s festivities. The best part, all proceeds benefit a local charity!

The short cut to the capitol is a must do every year! Since 2009, I have run the marathon or 10 mile every year. The course is gorgeous, the crowd is amazing, and the volunteers are second to none! The only bummer I experienced in 12 years was at the finish line last year. I waited for family members who ran the marathon, finished 20 minutes before the cutoff and were denied their post race beer and party experience because everything had been closed down. The food, entertainment and beer I enjoyed was far different from their experience and I firmly believe the first and last across the line should be treated to the same experience.

One of the best race deals around! For a typical 5k entry fee you get entry to the MN State Fair, a milk shake, a breakfast sandwich and a tshirt. Not to mention, Princess Kay passes out chocolate milk at the finish line! The course runs through the neighborhood just outside of the fair grounds and around the U St Paul Campus. There are a couple nice hills in the first mile. It’s a great excuse to get to the Fair first thing in the morning and earn the food you know you’re going to eat!