FAQs

The Basics:

What is Run Fest?

Run Fest at Panorama Farms is a community celebration of running, walking, music, and fun. With three events - the Trail 4-Miler, the 4-Person Relay, and The Fun One 1-Mile - runners of all ages and paces can take part!

Where is Run Fest held?

Panorama Farms is located in Earlysville, VA - home of the UVA cross country teams and the 2023 NCAA Championships. Please note that this venue is private property and only open to the public during scheduled events.

Race Day Logistics:

What time do the races start?

Trail 4-Miler: 9:00 AM
Relay: 10:30 AM
Fun One: 11:30 AM

When should I arrive?

Arrive at least 30 minutes early to park, check in, and warm up.

How do I pick up my bib?

Packet pickup will be:

  • Friday, April 17, 2026 at Random Row Brewing Co. from 4 PM - 7 PM

  • Race Day at Panorama Farms from 7:30–11:00 AM

Can I preview the course before race day?

No. Panorama Farms is private property and not open to the public outside scheduled events. You can take a peek at the courses here.

Race Details:

Do I need to be a runner to attend Run Fest?

No! All paces are welcome for the events - run, jog, or walk. You can also come just to cheer on your friends and family.

Is the course hilly or technical?

The Trail 4-Miler includes rolling, groomed single-track and grassy sections. The 1-Mile course is mostly flat and very beginner-friendly.

Relay Questions:

How does the relay work?

Four teammates each run the same 1-mile loop, passing an empty beer can “baton” between runners.

Who can I build a team with?

Anyone! The Run Fest Relay is built for groups representing the communities they care about. Build a team around:

  • Your workplace or department

  • Your run club or training group

  • A local business (restaurants, breweries, gyms, shops, etc.)

  • A fraternity or sorority

  • A UVA club, program, or alumni group

  • A school team, teacher squad, or parent group

  • Your neighborhood

  • Your family

  • A group of friends

  • A cause or organization you support

Do all four team members need to register?

Yes — every runner must register and sign a waiver. Your Team Captain will need to set up the team name at registration.

Can we choose our running order?

Yes — your team can decide the order.

What if another team already has our team name?

Easy — just add a number or variation.
for example: Random Row, Random Row 2, Random Row Blue Team, etc.

Can we substitute a runner last-minute?

If needed, yes — but all runners must sign a waiver and be registered before racing.

Do we need matching outfits?

No, but it makes everything more fun.

Families, Dogs & Strollers:

Are dogs welcome?

Yes! Dogs must remain on leash at all times, and please clean up after your pet. Dogs are allowed to race with their humans during The Fun One.

Are strollers allowed?

Strollers are welcome in The Fun One, but not in the Trail 4-Miler.

Can kids run?

Absolutely — kids of all ages can join The Fun One or join the Relay.

Food, Drink & Festival:

Will there be beer and beverages for purchase?

Yes! Random Row Brewing Co. will be onsite serving craft beer in the Biergarten, alongside non-alcoholic drinks. All participants will receive a drink ticket, which can go towards a beer or non-alcoholic beverage. 100% of beverage proceeds benefit the UVA Innovation Hub.

Will there be food on site?

Yes — we’ll have food trucks and a morning coffee truck.

Can spectators join the festival?

Of course — bring friends, family, and cheer squads!

Weather & Safety:

Is this a rain-or-shine event?

Yes — we run in rain or shine unless conditions become unsafe. We may schedule a rain date as we get closer to April.

Parking & Access:

Is there parking onsite?

Yes — free parking will be available at Panorama Farms. Volunteers will direct you on arrival, and the fancy new signs should point you in the right direction.

Beneficiary & Donations:

Who is Run Fest’s 2026 Charity Partner?

Run Fest supports the UVA Innovation Hub at Charlottesville Middle School, a partnership between:

  • UVA School of Education and Human Development

  • Charlottesville City Schools

  • UVA Center for Community Partnerships

How are proceeds used?

100% of beverage proceeds support Innovation Hub programming - from student resources in the classroom to teacher fellowships.

How else can I support the cause?

You can donate to the Innovation Hub while registering for Run Fest! It’s a fast and easy way to make an impact on learning in Charlottesville City Schools.

Transfers, Refunds & Policies:

Are refunds available if I can’t make it to Run Fest?

There are no refunds for Run Fest events - thank you for understanding!