Acushnet Welcomes a New Spring Tradition With 5K Brew Run

One of Acushnet's newest spring traditions is tapping in for the first time (pun intended).

Saint Francis Xavier School is set to host its First Annual 5K Brew Run on Saturday, April 11, 2026, combining a traditional road race with a post-race party that’s designed to be fun for runners, walkers, families, and even those who’d rather skip the miles and head straight for the party.

Race organizer Bryan Nadeau of Dighton said the idea is all about doing something different.

“(We're) always looking to branch out into the community, especially after the Touch-A-Truck event back in September 2025. We want to stand out from the other 5Ks and runs out there in this area,” Nadeau said.

The race begins and ends at St. Francis Xavier School, located at 223 Main Street in Acushnet, with organizers currently working on a possible shuttle service from Pope Park.

Race Day Details

The 5K run and walk kicks off at 11 a.m., followed by a post-race party from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Important note for participants: while this is a Brew Run, all beer and wine will be served after the race, not during it. Unlike some events that offer alcohol at checkpoints along the route, there will be no alcohol consumed during the 5K itself. The drinks will be waiting in the post-race beer garden for that well-deserved celebratory sip afterward.

Early bird registration is currently $40 through the first week of March, which includes:

• Entry for the run or walk
• Access to the post-race party
• Three drink tickets
• The opportunity to purchase full pours at vendor rates

Day-of registration is $45, and walk-ups are welcome. The first 200 participants will even receive a complimentary event t-shirt.

Craft Beer, Wine, and Food Lineup

The after-party is shaping up to be a solid one, featuring local favorites and room for a few more.

Beer vendors include:

• Red Hand Brewing Co., Lakeville
• Moby Dick Brewing Co., New Bedford
• One additional brewery spot available

Wine vendors include:

• A&M Winery, Rochester
• Sakonnet Vineyard, Little Compton
• One additional winery spot available

Food vendors include:

• Quahog Republic Whaler’s Tavern, New Bedford
• Room for two additional food vendors

Family-Friendly Fun

This event isn’t just for runners. Family members are encouraged to come along, and kids under 12 are free. The post-race party will feature live music, face painting, and a magician.

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Runners will also have access to pre- and post-race stretching and care thanks to Cornerstone Performance and Physical Therapy, who will be on site throughout the event.

An awards ceremony will recognize the top two to three runners in each division, adding a little friendly competition to the day.

Just Here for the Party?

If you’d rather skip the run and head straight to the celebration, post-race party-only tickets are $20. These tickets include access to the food, music, and atmosphere (drink samples not included).

Sponsorship Opportunities

Organizers are still seeking a title sponsor, a beer garden sponsor, and sponsors for event t-shirts and lawn signs. Local businesses or individuals interested in getting involved are encouraged to reach out to Nadeau.

How to Register

Registration is also available through St. Francis Xavier School’s Instagram and Facebook pages.

With fitness, food, drinks, and family-friendly fun all in one place, the First Annual St. Francis Xavier 5K Brew Run is shaping up to be a fresh new SouthCoast tradition – and a perfect excuse to get in shape for the new year.