2026 Bark & Brew 5K

The 2026 Bark & Brew 5K takes place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, at 9:00 AM EDT starting from 400 Water Street in Rochester, Michigan, USA. This scenic run through Downtown Rochester, presented by Chief Financial Credit Union in partnership with Leader Dogs for the Blind, features a 5K course guiding runners through Rochester Municipal Park along Paint Creek and the Paint Creek Trail, followed by a post-race party at Rochester Mills Beer Company with complimentary beverages, food, music, and a large finisher medal.

Event Logistics and Participant Information:

• Swag Pick-Up: Friday, June 5 (2:00 PM – 6:00 PM) and Saturday, June 6 (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM) at Leader Dogs for the Blind. Race day pick-up also available at the race site from 7:30 AM – 8:45 AM.
• Post-Race Party: Located at Rochester Mills Beer Company from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Complimentary beverage from Rochester Mills Beer Company or Starbucks Coffee, plus a taste of Jersey Mike's subs or a Knapp's Donut. Live DJ Mike provides entertainment.
• In-Person Inclusions: Race t-shirt (4.5-ounce, Oatmeal Heather District Perfect Tri-Blend shirt), stylish 4-inch Bark & Brew 5K medal, race bib, and coupon for a free, age-appropriate beverage and food item at the Post-Race Party.
• VIP Package (V.I.PAW): Limited to 400 registrants. Includes all basic package items plus a 2026 branded pint glass and Velour Fingertip Sport Towel.
• Virtual 5K: Includes race t-shirt, large medal, race bib, and shipping.
• Proceeds: All proceeds directly support Leader Dogs for the Blind's life-changing programs and services, provided at no cost to people who are blind or have low vision.
• Fundraising: Raised $4,981.20 toward a $10,000 goal (50% raised). 623 participants currently registered.
• Sponsors: Presenting Sponsor – Chief Financial Credit Union. Host Location – Rochester Mills Beer Company. Lead Sponsor – Frank Rewold & Sons, John & Margo Hebert. Champion Sponsors – Tevra Brands, United Wholesale Mortgage. Supporter Sponsors – Serra Buick & GMC, Jersey Mike's Subs, Coastal Pet Products. Friend Sponsors – Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Wag-n-Wash, SweatHouz, Central Bark, Stretch Lab. In-Kind Partners – Starbucks Coffee, Knapp's Donuts.

Route and Atmosphere:

• Course Description: The 5K course guides runners through Downtown Rochester, leading into Rochester Municipal Park along Paint Creek. Participants then transition onto the Paint Creek Trail, passing the Rochester Library and crossing University Drive before reaching the finish line near Rochester Mills Beer Company.
• Scenic Highlights: A beautiful, fun, and scenic route through downtown Rochester and along Paint Creek – perfect for a summer kick-off run.
• Family-Friendly & Dog-Friendly: Bark & Brew celebrates canine companions and community. The event encourages participants to run with their dogs.
• Post-Race Celebration: Complimentary beverages (beer from Rochester Mills or coffee from Starbucks), Jersey Mike's subs, Knapp's donuts, and live DJ music create a festive atmosphere.
• Non-Runner Participation: Friends and family who are not running can join the Bark & Brew event site in Downtown Rochester to continue the fun throughout the morning.
• Community Spirit: A fun, welcoming event that combines fitness, philanthropy, local business support, and celebration – all benefiting Leader Dogs for the Blind.
• Spectator Experience: Spectators can enjoy the downtown Rochester setting, cheer runners along the course, and join the post-race party at Rochester Mills Beer Company.

Bark & Brew 5K 2026 in Downtown Rochester, Michigan – a scenic run through Rochester Municipal Park and Paint Creek Trail – features a post-race party with complimentary beverages and food, live DJ, finisher medals, and all proceeds supporting Leader Dogs for the Blind's free programs for people who are blind or have low vision.