2025 Bark & Brew 5K

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is the Bark & Brew 5K?
Sunday, June 8, 2025.

Where is the Bark & Brew 5K located?
The event is held in Downtown Rochester.

What time does the race start?
9:00am | 5K Run/Walk
Please give yourself enough time to park, register (if you are not pre-registered), pick up your race bib and shirt (if you haven't already done so), and get to the starting line for your event. The roads used for the event are closed prior to the start times. In addition, it gets very crowded at packet pick-up in the minutes leading up to the start time, in both the pre-registered and late registration areas, so, please, arrive early!

How do I register?
You may register online at https://raceroster.com/events/2025/102980/2025-bark-and-brew-5k

I cannot attend the event, can I receive a refund?
Sorry, but no. As has been the case for several decades, we have a "No Refund" policy for the race.

Can I transfer my registration?
Yes. Please email with your transfer request.

Is the race in-person or virtual?
For 2025, we are offering both options - in-person and virtual.

Is a course map available?
5K Run/Walk

Where do I park for the event?
Free parking will be available throughout Downtown Rochester in designated parking areas. There are plenty of paved, secure parking spaces located throughout the area adjacent to Rochester Mills Beer Company.

What are the Age Groups for the event?
The designated age-groups are as follows for both male and female:

Ages 1-12, 13-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70-74, 75 and Over

Are there Age-Group awards?
Due to everyone receiving a finisher's medal, we will not be providing age-group awards.

Where and when can I pick up my race swag?
We are offering a few locations for SWAG bag pick-up! During registration, you can choose the location that is convenient for you. Your selected location will have your SWAG bag on the specified date/time. You may change your selected location at any time until Monday, June 2, 2025 (11:59 PM).

Early Pick-Up will be at the following locations:
Friday, June 6| 3 - 6pm, at Chief Financial Credit Union (Rochester)
Saturday, June 7| 12 - 4pm at Leader Dogs for the Blind (Rochester Hills)
Sunday, June 8| 7:30 - 9am at Rochester Mills Beer Company (Rochester)

Can someone else pick up my race swag for me?
Yes. Please bring a copy of the individual(s) confirmation email for verification.

What do I get for my registration?
This year's apparel will be in true Leader Dog spirit. We are working with local vendors to get the best quality. They are available in adult and youth sizes.

All registrants will receive a commemorative medal!
Keep in mind, we order a certain quantity of shirts - when we run out, we're out.
NOTE: Due to supply chain issues and delays in shipping, we are limited to a set number items. Once we sell out of an individual size, we will not be able to offer that option any longer. We apologize for any inconvenience.

After the race, participants can enjoy a post-race party at the finish line. Each participant will receive a complimentary age-appropriate beverage/food ticket that includes selections from Rochester Mills Beer Company, Domino's, Bakehouse 46, and Starbucks.

Paid, pre-registered participants are guaranteed a shirt, but please, pick up your shirt and race bib before the race. Late registrants are not guaranteed a shirt. As mentioned above, we order a certain quantity of shirts and quantities may be limited on race day.

Do you have a bag check available?
No. Please leave all personal belongings in your vehicles. We are not responsible for any lost or stolen items.

How do I know if I am registered?
You should have received a confirmation email. If you did not, or cannot find it, please visit our online search tool.

I ordered the wrong shirt size, or I would prefer a different shirt size, can I exchange it?
Sorry, but we cannot. Because of the time required for printing and shipping, shirts have to be ordered well in advance of the race, in quantities based on what had been requested by previous years race participants. However, if we have any shirts leftover from the event, you may check to see if your size is available at the event.

Can I bring my dog?
Participants are welcome to bring their well-behaved, leashed dogs to the event. To ensure a safe and enjoyable run for all, you must follow all Dog Participation Rules detailed below.

Dog Participation Rules:

Eligibility:

• Dogs must be at least 6 months old to participate.
• All dogs must be up to date on vaccinations, including rabies, distemper, and parvovirus.
• Dogs in heat are not permitted.

Behavior:

• Dogs must be well-socialized and non-aggressive toward people or other animals.
• Excessive barking or disruptive behavior may result in removal from the event.

Leashes and Control:

• Dogs must be on a non-retractable leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
• Keep your dog under control and within your reach at all times.
• Only one dog per participant is allowed.

Clean-Up:

• Participants must pick up after their dogs and dispose of waste in designated areas.
• Please bring your own waste bags.

Health and Safety:

• If your dog becomes overwhelmed, anxious, or aggressive, please remove them from the event area.
• Be mindful of your dog’s health in warm weather—provide water and watch for signs of overheating.
• Dogs showing signs of illness (coughing, sneezing, vomiting, diarrhea) should not attend.

Liability:

• Owners are responsible for the behavior and actions of their dogs.
• Leader Dogs for the Blind is not liable for any injuries or damages caused by participating dogs.

By registering for the event, you agree to comply with all event rules and regulations.