Run, eat, drink & party in green at the O'Hartford 5K

The O’Hartford 5K has become a downtown St Patrick’s Day tradition, now in its 12th year.  We’ve always got the festive spirit with costumes and green galore, ice cold beer and delicious food.  The one thing we just can’t seem to control is the weather!

After years braving the elements – with whipping winds that took out Port-a-Potties last year - we assessed how we could deliver a more comfortable post-race party for runners.  So, we’re bringing the party inside the XL Center, changing up the food – but still delivering refreshing Hooker beer (21+, don’t forget ID!).

Some highlights:

-With slight course modifications, we’ve got our start and finish line on Trumbull St near the XL Center entrance for easy access.

-Irish stout ice cream – yes, I’ll say it again…Irish stout ice cream, handmade exclusively for the O’Hartford party by Shady Glen in Manchester.

-Warm pretzels served with Irish stone-ground mustard.  Yum!

-Free iRewind personal race video with option to purchase a premium downloadable race video capturing your personal race experience from 6 cameras ($9.99 in advance).

-Use #OHartford on social media to have your photos shown on video screens throughout the post-race party.

-We’re keeping some of the favorites, like custom glass beer steins for division awards.  And, our overall winners will enjoy another homemade element, with roots ingrained in rich Irish heritage.  I’m digging out my grandmother’s almost-famous Irish soda bread recipe and baking it up just for the occasion.  

-In the spirit of food, please don’t forget to pack some non-perishable food for the HMF Can drive to benefit Foodshare.  It’ll make you feel good to give back!

-Need secure storage? The Mobile Locker Company offers  starting at $5 (reserve in advance at themobilelockerco.com or pay onsite).

Thank you for continuing to make this race such a fun annual tradition - we look forward to seeing you out there on the 20th!