Oktoberfest 5K Run & Walk

The Oktoberfest 5K Run & Walk is a short race and one-mile walk tied to Cleveland Oktoberfest in Berea, Ohio. The 5K is chip timed with MyLaps BibTag timing, while the one-mile walk is untimed. Race-day packet pickup and registration start in the morning, the run and walk begin late morning, and awards follow around midday. Participants enter the fairgrounds through the Eastland Road gate, where a race bib also gets them free admission to Cleveland Oktoberfest. The event leans into the festival theme: runners get a beer or drink ticket if they are 21 or older, a commemorative mug, and a Great Lakes 5K Bier Run shirt for pre-registered runners. Dressing in authentic German costume earns an extra free admission for a friend. The 5K gives awards to the top overall male and female, plus the top three finishers in age groups from 14 and under through 70 and over, including a wheelchair category. Adult age-group winners receive a commemorative pint glass, while younger winners receive medals.