Awake the Grapes

The Awake the Grapes 5k & 10k Vineyard Run celebrates its 15th anniversary on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the Carlos Creek Winery in Alexandria, Minnesota. This unique event features a multi-terrain course including paved paths, gravel roads, and cross-country sections that lead runners directly through the winery’s estate vineyards and along the scenic shores of Lake Ida. Hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Alexandria and the Alexandria Figure Skating Club, the event supports local youth programs and community leadership initiatives.

Event Logistics and Participant Information:

• -- Race Day Schedule: Registration opens at 8:00 AM on-site. The 10k begins at 9:00 AM, followed shortly by the 5k at 9:15 AM. A formal award ceremony is scheduled for 10:45 AM, once all participants have completed the course.
• -- Participant Perks: Runners who registered before the May 3rd deadline receive a commemorative event t-shirt. For those registering after this date, a drink ticket is provided as a replacement incentive.
• -- Award Categories: Medals are awarded to the top male and female finishers in various age ranges, as well as overall male and female winners for both the 5k and 10k distances.
• -- Venue Amenities: The race atmosphere is enhanced by live music starting at 9:30 AM. On-site facilities including Jack’s Public House, Sizzle Food Truck, Stoke Pizza Kitchen, and 20 Northmen Brewing Co open throughout the morning.
• -- Attendance: There are currently 82 participants registered for the 2026 event, which continues to grow as the race date approaches.

Community and Charitable Impact:

• -- Kiwanis Club of Alexandria: As part of a global service organization, the local club uses proceeds from the run to fund projects centered on "Serving the Children of the World."
• -- Alexandria Figure Skating Club: Funds also support the Learn to Skate USA curriculum, providing group and private lessons for skaters of all levels within the community.
• -- Donation Options: A dedicated "Donation" registration track is available for community members who wish to support these organizations and receive an event t-shirt without participating in the competitive runs.
• -- Social Experience: The event transitions from a morning run into a community social hour, utilizing the Carlos Creek Winery tasting room as the central hub for the award presentations and post-race celebrations.

The Awake the Grapes 2026 vineyard run offers a distinct racing experience that combines physical endurance with the hospitality of the Minnesota wine country, all while benefiting essential local youth services.