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.

GPS: Enter 300 Panorama Road, Earlysville, VA and follow the signs for “"Panorama Running” once you enter the property.

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. There will be hot coffee from Shenandoah Joe’s available.

How do I pick up my bib?

Packet pickup will be:

• Friday, April 17, 2026 at Great Outdoor Provision Co. from 3 PM - 6 PM

• Race Day at Panorama Farms from 8:00 AM –11:00 AM

Can I preview the course before race day?

Panorama Farms is private property and is not open to the general public outside of scheduled events. You can take a peek at the courses here.

Just announced: On Saturday, February 21 and Saturday, March 21, participants who are registered for Run Fest are invited to participate in Panorama Preview Days! This is a unique opportunity to explore the trails at Panorama Farms at your own pace. We highly recommend bringing a GPS device with you.

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 nor the Relay.

Can kids run?

Absolutely — runners and walkers of all ages can join The Fun One or join the Relay. Kids 5 and under are free - please register your child unless they are riding in a stroller.

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.

Will there be food on site?

Yes — we’ll have food trucks and a morning coffee tent. Feel free to bring your snacks, as well (no alcohol, please).

Can spectators join the festival?

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

Can I bring a pop-up tent?

A tent will be provided for participants, but yes - please feel free to bring an additional pop-up tent for sun or rain if you prefer. You may want to bring a blanket as the grass may be wet.

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 Panorama Running signs should point you in the right direction.

Charity Partner & 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?

On-site purchases made at Run Fest support Innovation Hub programming - from student resources in the classroom to teacher fellowships. The Innovation Hub will support 12 Innovation Teaching Fellows next year, which will include a Summer Institute, year-round professional learning, and in-class support for every student!

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!

What if I want to transfer to another event?

That’s absolutely fine, but please let us know before race day by emailing runfestva@gmail.com.