Get ready for a refreshing evening of fun and fitness at the 20th Annual Southwest Cafe Margarita 5K, set to take place on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in the charming town of Ridgefield, CT. This beloved summer race offers a vibrant 5K (3.1-mile) course, culminating in the ultimate cool-down: a delicious post-race margarita for all participants over 21. Starting promptly at 7:00 PM, the race kicks off from the Union Savings Bank parking lot at 100 Danbury Road, sending runners on a USATF-certified, flat and fast route through the scenic Farmingville section of Ridgefield. Runners can expect a course that winds along Farmingville Road, Limekiln Road, Lee Road, and a loop on Norrans Ridge before retracing their steps back to the finish line. While the course is not closed to traffic, vigilant course marshals will be present to ensure runner safety.

Known as "THE summer race with the best way to cool down," the Southwest Cafe Margarita 5K has built a strong reputation over two decades as a lively community event. Participants consistently praise the festive atmosphere, which makes this race a standout. Typical race day conditions in late July see highs around 84°F and lows around 64°F, with a 17% chance of precipitation, so expect warm summer evening temperatures as you run. You'll receive a race bib and a commemorative t-shirt (while supplies last), with your bib serving as your coupon for that much-anticipated finisher's margarita.

Beyond the personal achievement and celebratory margaritas, every stride taken in the Southwest Cafe Margarita 5K supports a vital cause. The event proudly benefits Ability Beyond, an inspiring organization dedicated to empowering individuals of all abilities to live, work, and thrive within their communities. This commitment to charity, combined with a fast course and an unforgettable post-race fiesta, makes the Southwest Cafe Margarita 5K a must-do event for runners of all levels.