Last Best Beer Run and 5K

Get ready to experience the perfect blend of athletic endeavor and craft brew appreciation at the Last Best Beer Run and 5K, set to take place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, in the vibrant downtown of Billings, Montana. This unique event, a highlight of Billings Craft Beer Week, offers two distinct ways to tackle its flat and fast 5K course. Typical race day conditions in mid-May bring pleasant highs around 67F and lows of 43F, with only an 11% chance of precipitation, creating ideal running weather for all participants.

Runners can choose their adventure: either embrace the traditional "5K Run," where you power through the scenic downtown Billings route without interruption, or opt for the spirited "Beer Run," which integrates eight to ten 4-ounce pours of local craft beer at stations spread throughout the first two miles of the course. Water and restrooms are also conveniently available along the Beer Run route. The course winds through downtown, utilizing sidewalks in certain areas for safety, with dedicated officers and volunteers guiding runners, and then opens up to the road, with cones marking the bike lane. Each race culminates in an energetic finish and an exciting after-party at Dehler Park, where more craft beer, snacks, and treats await.

What truly sets the Last Best Beer Run and 5K apart is its festive atmosphere, making it more than just a race. Participants are encouraged to join the "Cartoons and Video Games" themed costume contest for 2026, with hidden themed items on the course and at the after-party offering chances to win prizes. Whether you're chasing a personal best in the no-beer 5K or enjoying a leisurely beer-tasting jog with friends, this event promises a memorable experience filled with community spirit, delicious local brews, and lively entertainment as it proudly rounds out Billings Craft Beer Week.