Iris fest hosts several scenic runs
The 2014 Keizer Iris Festival will be kicking off this weekend with a number of different events. Beginning at 5 p.m Thursday, May 15, there will be an Iris Festival Kick-Off Party, which includes children's entertainment until 6 p.m. and comedy and music show until 9 p.m.
The event has a multitude of family-friendly activities happening throughout the weekend, including a networking event, a golf tournament, a parade, a brew and food fair and much more. While there are many ways to enjoy the festival, those who are looking to get a little exercise will have many opportunities to do so over the fun filled weekend.
Related: Cherry Avenue closed today in preparation for Iris Festival Related: Keizer Iris Festival returns to heart of city
On Saturday, May 17, and Sunday, May 18, many different runs and walks ranging from a 3K to a marathon will take place near Manbrin and River roads in the center of Keizer. The 3K and the 5K will happen before the Iris Festival Parade beginning at 9:15 a.m. Check-in for the two shorter races starts at 7 a.m. Saturday.
The 10K, half marathon, and full marathon will take place on Sunday, with check-in beginning at 6 a.m. The Full marathon will begin at 7 a.m., (which will also be the start time for the 10K and half-marathon walkers) followed by the regular half-marathon and 10K beginning at 8 a.m.
Saturday's courses will be closed off to cars and lined with pre-parade spectators cheering them on. Kids will be treated to a mascot dance during their warm up before the race, and the Sunday race participants will experience a safe open course along the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway. Participants can enjoy views of the Irises in colorful bloom, hop fields and more of Oregon's crops.
Gift certificates, which will be emailed to those participants, will be given to the overall winners in each race category for both men and women.
Participants can pick up their packets the day before each of the races at the Keizer Chamber of Commerce in Keizer Station, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. All unclaimed packets will be available to pick up on the day of the race at the starting area.
Runners and walkers are permitted to use headphones, and can also run with a baby stroller or baby jogger. Dogs are not allowed to run with participants, however there is a pet friendly event on Saturday for those who would like to bring their "fido" for a special walk.
Registration for the event is $15 for the 3K; $30 for the 5K; $40 for the 10K; $50 for the half-marathon; and $60 for the fill marathon. For day of race registration add $10 to each amount.
To register for the event, or for additional information go to irisfestival.com/runs.
If you go
What: The 27th annual Keizer Iris Festival
Where: The start and finish lines will be near Manbrin and River roads in the center of Keizer
When: May 15 through May 18
Link for maps of all routes:bit.ly/1uVWd6f