Niagara Falls Craft Beer & Music Running Festival

Join us on Saturday, August 1, 2026, for the fourth annual Craft Beer & Music Running Festival along the picturesque Lower Niagara River Gorge. Organized by iRun WNY and sponsored by The Craft Kitchen & Bar, this event offers runners a unique blend of scenic routes and post-race festivities.
Participants can choose from three running distances: 5K (10 AM start), 10K (9:30 AM start), and 15K (9 AM start). All races will follow out-and-back courses along the Niagara Falls State Park Pedestrian Path, providing stunning views of the river gorge. A separate one-mile fun walk is also available for those who prefer a more leisurely pace.
Registration fees vary based on when you sign up: $35/$40 (online/race day) for 5K runners; $40/$45 (online/race day) for 10K participants; and $45/$50 (online/race day) for those tackling the 15K. Early registrants are guaranteed a custom race t-shirt in their requested size, with additional shirts available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Race-day registration begins at 8 AM near the Aquarium 360 Niagara Gorge Discovery Center, where you can also pick up your packet and t-shirts if needed. The start/finish line is conveniently located just steps away from The Craft Kitchen & Bar, making it easy to transition between races and festivities.
After crossing the finish line, runners will be treated to a lively post-race celebration at The Craft with live music on the patio, complimentary pizza from DiCamillo Bakery, and free craft beer for those over 21. Additionally, custom trophies will be awarded to first-place male and female winners in each distance category, while age group awards include custom pint mugs.
Awards ceremonies are scheduled for 11:15 AM at The Craft Kitchen & Bar, where runners can also enjoy a post-race social hour with friends and family. Parking is readily available near the start/finish line throughout downtown Niagara Falls.
For more information or sponsorship opportunities, contact Bill Olesiuk at (773) 410-4375 or Paul Beatty at (716) 998-5777. In case of inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances, race organizers reserve the right to reschedule or convert this event into a virtual run with no refunds.
Race Management Solutions will provide professional timing services using RFID technology for accurate results throughout the day. Participants can access real-time updates via the ITSYourRace mobile app and kiosks at the finish line. Post-race photos are also available through Facebook, and custom certificates of completion can be downloaded from the race website free of charge.
This event not only offers a challenging course but also supports local arts and cultural programs by donating proceeds to the Niagara Arts & Cultural Center's summer youth initiatives. Don't miss your chance to experience this unique blend of running and community spirit in one of New York’s most scenic settings!
For any inquiries or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Bill Olesiuk at 773-410-4375 or Paul Beatty at 716-998-5777.