Rocktoberfest Half Marathon & 5k

Race Overview

The Rocktoberfest Half Marathon and 5K presented by Riverwalk is a running event that takes place in Rock Hill, South Carolina. It is a fun-filled event that combines running with music and beer. The event includes a half marathon and a 5K race, both of which take place in the scenic Riverwalk neighborhoods of Rock Hill.

Entertainment and Celebration

• Live Music: A rock band performs live music near the start/finish line to keep runners motivated.
• Beer Garden: After the race, participants can enjoy an Octoberfest beer garden featuring a variety of local brews.
• Full-Day Celebration: The event is a celebration of fitness, music, and good times for runners and spectators alike.
• Unique Atmosphere: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Riverwalk area of Rock Hill.

Event Details

The Rocktoberfest Half Marathon & 5K presented by Riverwalk will be capped for the 2025 event. There will be NO RACE DAY Registration so be sure to sign up early! ALL registration ends October 11th, 2025 unless we sell out beforehand.

Race Start Times

• Date: Saturday, October 11th, 2025
• Half Marathon Start: 8:00 AM
• 5K Start: 8:15 AM
• Awards Ceremony: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM
• After Party: 10:30 AM – 1:30 PM in River District, details here.

Location

Venue: Rock Hill Criterium Course
1307 Riverwalk Parkway
Rock Hill, South Carolina 29730

Participants Receive

• Tech Shirt: Short or Long Sleeve options (Half Marathoner & 5K)
• Finisher Medals: Incredible Medals for all participants (Half Marathoner & 5K)
• Rock Music: Enjoy live performances at the event
• Beer Garden Ticket: Celebrate with a drink post-race

Packet Pickup

• Date: Friday, October 10th, 2025: 2:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Location: Charlotte Running Company, 652 Herrons Ferry Rd, # 101, Rock Hill, South Carolina 29730
• More Info: For more information on Packet Pick Up, click HERE
• Will Call: Packet Pickup for those who purchased it on Race Day from 7:00 AM – 7:45 AM

Course Information

The 13.1 Rocktoberfest Half Marathon and 5K begins and ends at the Criterium Course in Rock Hill, SC Riverwalk neighborhood. Runners will traverse through the beautiful Riverwalk neighborhood and onto the paved Piedmont Medical Center Trail. A small 400-meter section of gravel road is included after mile 6, but the course quickly returns to pavement. The course will be marked, and per the City of Rock Hill, runners are advised to use the bike path and sidewalks.

COURSE MAP

Pacers

We are excited to have the Charlotte Running Club Pace Team. Pace groups will be available for various finish times. No need to sign up for a group, just look for the pacer signs at the start line.

Timing

We have partnered with Start 2 Finish for timing services. All participants will receive a disposable timing tag during packet pick-up.

T-Shirts

Every participant will be guaranteed a runners tech shirt if signed up before September 20th. Choice available between Unisex Short or Long sleeve. Sizes are ordered based on registration information.

Virtual Runner

If you couldn't register this year or have time constraints, consider being a Virtual Runner! See Details HERE.

Divisions

Categories include Overall, Masters, and age divisions from 12 and under to 75+.

Awards

Top 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Males and Females Overall, and 1st in all divisions will receive awards sponsored by local businesses.

Awards will be presented during the ceremony at 10:30 am.

Refunds and Transfers

Registration fees are non-refundable. Event registrations are non-transferable between individuals, events, or years. Transfers to the Virtual Event are allowed until October 5th, 2024.

Time Limits

There is a strict 3:00 hour time limit for the Half Marathon and a 1 hour limit for the 5K. Compliance with city regulations for traffic reopening is mandatory.

Dogs and Strollers

For safety reasons, dogs and strollers are not allowed at this event.

Medical/First Aid

If medical attention is required, inform a volunteer at the finish line for assistance.

Water Stops/Restrooms

Water and portable restrooms will be positioned every 2 miles along the course. Water bottles will be provided at the finish line after the race.

Weather Policy

Races will be held rain or shine, unless deemed unsafe by Sisu Events. No refunds or transfers will be issued for weather-related cancellations.

Parking and Transportation

Conveniently located off I77, this race has ample parking. Carpooling is encouraged.

• Distance: 25 Minutes from Downtown Charlotte
• Distance: 40 Minutes from Huntersville, NC
• Distance: 1hr 10 minutes from Downtown Columbia, SC
• Distance: 1hr 45 minutes from Downtown Greenville, SC
• Distance: 1hr 45 minutes from Downtown Greensboro, NC

Post Race Expo

The Finish Festival at the Criterium Course will be held from 7:30 AM to 12:00 noon. Enjoy entertainment, vendors, food, and refreshments.

ID will be required for entry to the beer garden.

Entertainment

Enjoy LIVE ROCK music at the Start and Finish line from Rock Onyx to energize the event!

For More Information