2026 Bark & Brew 5K
Run. Walk. Sip. Eat. Stay.
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: Includes a 2026 branded Bark & Brew 5K pint glass and Velour Fingertip Sport Towel, along with race bib, shirt, medal, and post-race beverage/food item. Capped at 400 registrants.
- Beautiful Course: The 5K course guides runners through Downtown Rochester, into Rochester Municipal Park along Paint Creek, and onto the Paint Creek Trail, finishing near the Rochester Mills Beer Company.
- Post-Race Party: Held at Rochester Mills Beer Company from 9 AM to 12 PM, featuring a complimentary beverage from Rochester Mills Beer Company or Starbucks Coffee, and a taste of Jersey Mike's subs or a Knapp's Donut. DJ Mike will provide music.
In-person participants 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.
Registration Fees
Prices are inclusive of mandatory charges, items, and fees.
- 5K VIP Package (In-Person Only): $39.44 (Jan 30 – Apr 30), $44.79 (May 1 – May 31), $50.14 (Jun 1 – Jun 6), $55.49 (Jun 7 – Jun 7)
- 5K Basic Package (In-Person Only): $28.74 (Jan 30 – Apr 30), $34.09 (May 1 – May 31), $39.44 (Jun 1 – Jun 6), $44.79 (Jun 7 – Jun 7)
- Virtual 5K: $44.79 (Jan 30 - Jun 7)
Event Schedule
- Fri, June 5, 2026: 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM: Swag Pick-Up - Leader Dogs for the Blind
- Sat, June 6, 2026: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM: Swag Pick-Up - Leader Dogs for the Blind
- Sun, June 7, 2026: 7:30 AM - 8:45 AM: Swag Pick-Up (Race Site)
- Sun, June 7, 2026: 9:00 AM - 5K Start
- Sun, June 7, 2026: 9:15 AM - Post Race Celebration
What You Get With Your Race Registration
- An awesome, 4.5-ounce, Oatmeal Heather District Perfect Tri-Blend Shirt
- Stylish Bark & Brew 5K 4-inch race medal
- Coupon for a free, age-appropriate beverage and food item at the Post-Race Party.
- VIP Upgrade: 2026 branded Bark & Brew 5K pint glass and Velour Fingertip Sport Towel.
