Schlitz Park Run by the River 5K

Schlitz Park 5K Run by the River Cancelled

We regret to announce that the Schlitz Park 5K Run by the River, scheduled for Thursday, September 10, 2026, has been cancelled.

This was not an easy decision, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this may cause for runners, walkers, teams, sponsors, volunteers, and community partners who planned to participate.

We are grateful for the continued support of everyone who helps make this event a meaningful community tradition at Schlitz Park. Additional information, including any applicable registration updates, will be shared as soon as it becomes available.

All 2026 registrations will be refunded.

Watch for its return in 2027!

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Schlitz Park Run by the River 5K – Milwaukee’s Only Evening 5K Through a Vibrant Urban Market!

Get ready for an unforgettable evening run! The 2026 Run by the River 5K is back at Schlitz Park on Thursday, September 10th, offering Milwaukee’s only evening 5K experience through a vibrant urban market. This unique race and 2-mile walk takes participants along the scenic Milwaukee Riverwalk, through Brewer’s Hill, and around Schlitz Park,  a vibrant office park that once was the former Schlitz Brewery.

Founded by the late Gary Grunau, a visionary behind much of downtown Milwaukee’s development, the event continues his legacy of community impact and philanthropy. Each year, over 500 runners and walkers—individuals, teams, corporate partners, and neighbors—come together for this inspiring event, raising thousands for a local cause.

This year, we’re proud to support the Ignite the Spirit Fund – Milwaukee, an organization founded by local firefighters that provides mental, emotional, and financial support to Milwaukee’s first responders and their families. On a date as meaningful as 9/11, your participation is more than a run—it’s a tribute to the courage and resilience of those who protect our city every day.

Every step makes a difference. Join us to run, walk, and give back—while experiencing a one-of-a-kind urban evening race you won’t find anywhere else.

Firehouse Challenge: Who Will Take Home the Axe?

Are you a Milwaukee firefighter, a member of the Chief Officers Association, part of the MFD Administration, or the MFD Repair Shop? Not part of MFD? We want you! Just connect with your department name and firehouse and we’ll add your team to the challenge.

Then it’s time to suit up and represent your house in the first-ever Firehouse Challenge.

Each firehouse will compete for bragging rights and the coveted Traveling Axe, proudly sponsored by Ridgeway Woodworks.

How It Works

We will take the three fastest members from each firehouse, and the team with the fastest average score will win the Firehouse Challenge Axe.

Our friends at Ridgeway Woodworks will engrave the name of the winning firehouse on the handle each year.

Not part of MFD? We want you! Just connect with your firehouse and we’ll add your team to the challenge.

Think your crew has what it takes? Let the challenge begin.

New for 2026 — Free Kiddos 1K

Young participants are invited to take part in a fun and family-friendly Kiddos 1K at Schlitz Park. Registration is free, but each child must be registered in advance