Lace up your shoes for the Craft Half Marathon, Winston-Salem's premier spring running event and block party, taking place on Saturday, April 4, 2026. Offering distances for every runner, choose your challenge from the Half Marathon (13.1M), a spirited 5K, or a fun 1-Mile race. For those who want to double the fun, the CraftDouble combines the Crazy Mile and the 5K. Typically, race day conditions offer pleasant spring weather with highs around 68°F and lows around 45°F, with only a 14% chance of precipitation, creating an ideal setting for a memorable race.

The Half Marathon course is renowned for being both challenging and rewarding, featuring a "healthy dose of hills" and a "rolling" elevation profile. Runners will begin with a 3-mile loop through downtown Winston-Salem before heading out on a scenic, paved greenway. Expect tree-lined streets and engaging scenery, including views of the Quarry and Salem Lake, particularly during the notable uphill climb around mile 7. A much-anticipated downhill finish will carry you back to the vibrant downtown celebration. Aid stations, conveniently spaced every 2-3 miles, provide Lemon-Lime and Glacier Frost Gatorade, along with GU gels for Half Marathon participants, ensuring you stay fueled throughout your run.

What truly sets the Craft Half Marathon apart is its lively celebration of North Carolina craft beer and community spirit. The race starts and finishes at Foothills Brewpub in downtown Winston-Salem, where the entire block of 4th Street is shut down for an epic block party. As soon as the races get underway, live music kicks in and craft beer from Foothills and up to twelve other exceptional breweries begins to flow, creating an electric atmosphere for runners and spectators alike. Registered participants are rewarded with a premium experience, including a finisher's medal, a performance event tee, two complimentary craft beers, delicious food, and awesome race swag, making this annual event a consistent sell-out.