The Hops for Hope 5K & BrewFest begins and ends at Mount Saint Mary Park in St. Charles, Illinois, featuring beer samples integrated into the run. This is a certified, professionally timed 5K designed for both competitive runners and walkers, utilizing a wave start to organize participants by speed. The event is restricted to individuals aged 21 and over, including the festival area. 5K participants must collect their race packets beforehand with a valid ID.
The course follows the river path towards Geneva, passes through Wheeler Park, and returns to Mount Saint Mary Park for the BrewFest. Along the route, Beer Stops offer 3-ounce samples from local craft breweries. The post-race festival includes additional beer samples, live music, food vendors, raffle tickets for the Mountain of Beer, and an Adaptive Bike Giveaway. Attendees can register for both the 5K and BrewFest, opt for a BrewFest-only ticket, or attend as a designated driver. Proceeds benefit Project Mobility, an organization that facilitates adaptive cycling opportunities. Over the last nine years, the event has contributed to the donation of nearly $80,000 in adaptive bicycles.