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Leader Dogs for the Blind, together with presenting sponsor Chief Financial Credit Union, is thrilled to announce the return of the Bark & Brew 5K! Kick off your summer with a fun and scenic run through Downtown Rochester, MI. All proceeds from the Bark & Brew 5K directly support Leader Dog’s life‑changing programs and services, provided at no cost to people who are blind or have low vision.
Race Features
V.I.PAW – As a VIP, you will receive a 2026 branded Bark & Brew 5K pint glass and Velour Fingertip Sport Towel, along with your race bib, shirt, medal, and post-race beverage/food item. This category is capped at 400 registrants.
Beautiful Course – The 2026 5K course will guide runners through Downtown Rochester, leading into Rochester Municipal Park along Paint Creek. Participants will then transition onto the Paint Creek Trail, passing the Rochester Library and crossing University Drive before reaching the finish line near the Rochester Mills Beer Company.
Post-Race Party – After the race, celebrate your achievement with a complimentary beverage from Rochester Mills Beer Company or Starbucks Coffee, and a taste of Jersey Mike's subs or a Knapp's Donut. No matter your choice, enjoy the moment while soaking in the amazing sounds of DJ Mike. The Post-Race Party is located at Rochester Mills Beer Company from 9 AM to 12 PM.
In-person participants also receive a race t-shirt, large medal, race bib, and a coupon for a free, age-appropriate beverage and food item at the Post-Race Party.
After completing your race, head over to the Bark & Brew Event Site in Downtown Rochester to redeem your free beverage coupon! Have your non-running friends and family join you at the Bark & Brew event and continue the fun throughout the morning.
Join us for the annual Candy Cane Course 5k/12k! A fun, Christmas-themed event that is perfect for the whole family.
The fun includes -
Great Swag - designer shirt & custom medal
Chip-timing with live results and awards
Free photos
Delicious Treats waiting at the finish line
Plenty of fun!
Grab your friends and family, you are not going to want to miss this one!
Can't make the race? No problem! We offer a virtual race option where you can run anywhere, at any time, and still earn the fun swag!
*Youth-based pricing for the 5k/12k, 12 & Under are only $22!
5k/12k registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!
1 Mile registration is untimed and includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!
The kid's dash is a fun, untimed dash for our kiddos ages 10 and under. Registration includes a mini bib, youth-sized shirt, and a specifically crafted medal for our kids' dash event! (If your child wants to run the kid's dash, and doesn't want the SWAG, they are welcome to run with us on race day for free!)
*Register by midnight on Thursday, two Thursdays before race day, to guarantee your shirt!
Please note a $10 parking fee is required to enter the park, unless you have an RSU Annual Pass