MILTON, Del. — Calling all runners, walkers, and craft beer enthusiasts: Dogfish Head Craft Brewery is gearing up for its 19th annual Dogfish Dash, scheduled for Sunday, September 27, 2026. Kicking off at the Dogfish Head Milton Brewery, the beloved off-center 5K and pet-friendly 1.5-mile walk will return with a fresh addition this year: live music at every stop along the route.
As always, the event combines outdoor recreation with community support. All proceeds from the Dogfish Dash will benefit the Sussex County Land Trust, a local nonprofit dedicated to preserving the open spaces, community parks, historic sites, and forests that define Sussex County's unique landscape.
"The Dogfish Dash has become one of our favorite community traditions, bringing people together to celebrate the outdoors and support local conservation," said Jason King, Social Impact Programs Manager at Dogfish Head. "Working alongside the Sussex County Land Trust has been a great partnership, and we're excited to add live music to this year's Dash and make race day even more memorable."
A Soundtrack for the Dash
Runners participating in the 5K will be energized by live performances stationed throughout the course, featuring local acts like the Cape Henlopen Marching Band, Back Bay Trio, Nick Kashmanian, and DJ Jim Shreds. Those opting for the 1.5-mile walk with their furry friends will also enjoy an off-center stroll set to the sounds of DJ Jim Shreds.
The Recycled Costume Contest
No Dogfish Dash is complete without the fan-favorite Recycled Costume Contest. Beginning promptly at 8 AM on race day, participants will showcase their creativity using repurposed materials such as old beer cans, cardboard, and bottle caps. Runners looking to secure first prize are encouraged to tie their costumes into a Sussex County Land Trust conservation theme.
What to Expect on Race Day
Both the 5K and the 1.5-mile walk kick off at 9 AM. Registration is currently open online, with tickets priced at $50 for 5K runners and $40 for walkers (pets run for free). The registration fee includes a race T-shirt, a reusable bag, and two beverage tickets (for those 21 and older) to be used at the post-race party.
The celebration continues after the finish line with a draft beer trailer, snacks to refuel, and a raffle loaded with fun prizes. For spectators and attendees not participating in the race, on-site food and beverages will also be available for purchase.
Dash Weekend Festivities
The Dogfish Dash is more than just a Sunday morning run; it is a full weekend of events.
- Packet Pickup & Benevolence Night (Sept. 23): Registered participants must pick up their packets before race day. Early pickup is Wednesday, September 23, from 4–8 PM at Dogfish Head Brewings & Eats in Rehoboth Beach. Racers can make an evening out of it by staying for Benevolence Night, which will also benefit the Sussex County Land Trust.
- Fireside Chat (Sept. 25): The weekend officially kicks off on Friday, September 25, with a Fireside Chat at the Dogfish INN in Lewes. Starting at 5 PM, representatives from Dogfish Head and the Sussex County Land Trust will gather around the fire to discuss nature, trail preservation, and their ongoing partnership. The chat is open to everyone.
- Final Packet Pickup (Sept. 26): For those arriving closer to race day, a final packet pickup will be held on Saturday, September 26, from 12–5 PM at the Milton Brewery.
For more information or to register for the Dogfish Dash, visit www.dogfish.com/dash.
