Every fall, runners, walkers, and Dogfish Head fans come together in Milton for one of Coastal Delaware's most unique events. 

The Dogfish Dash is back for its 19th year, bringing another morning of fitness, fun, and community while raising money to support local land preservation efforts.

The Dogfish Dash Is Back for Its 19th Year

The 19th annual Dogfish Dash takes place on Sunday, September 27, at the Dogfish Head Milton Brewery.

This year's event will once again benefit the Sussex County Land Trust, with all proceeds supporting its work to protect natural areas, trails, and open spaces throughout Sussex County.

Participants can choose between two events:

• 5K(ish) Run
• 3K Walk, where participants are encouraged to bring their dogs along

The race runs from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., with judging for the popular Recycled Costume Contest beginning at 8 a.m.

Image: Dogfish Head

Beer and Benevolence Supporting Sussex County Land Preservation

All proceeds from the Dogfish Dash will once again benefit the Sussex County Land Trust, a nonprofit conservation organization working to protect the land and resources that make Sussex County special.

Through land preservation, stewardship, recreation, and community partnerships, the organization helps safeguard the natural, agricultural, and cultural landscapes that define the area.

One of its major public access projects is Stephen P. Hudson Park in Milton, which includes a trailhead connection to the Georgetown Lewes Trail. 

Recent improvements include expanded parking, accessible amenities, new trail infrastructure, and continued work on the future Can Do Playground in partnership with Sussex County Rotary Clubs.

The organization has also invested in the Forest of the Broadkill Preserve, a property of more than 294 acres located just outside downtown Milton and only minutes from the Dogfish Head brewery. 

Once heavily logged, the preserve is now undergoing trail restoration, reforestation, habitat improvements, and expanded public access.

Recent volunteer projects, including Dogfish Head’s Benevolence Day, have helped build and improve new sections of trail throughout the preserve.

Other Sussex County Land Trust projects include historic preservation, water access planning, conservation easements, and the recent preservation of Ard na Gréine near Lewes. 

The 88-acre property is one of the last large open spaces east of Route 1.

Registration Includes More Than Just the Race

Registration is now open for both events.

Registration fee:

• $50 for runners
• $40 for walkers

Each registration includes:

• Event T-shirt
• Reusable bag
• Two beverage tickets for the post-race party (21+)
• Access to the celebration after the race featuring Dogfish draft beer, Sussex County Land Trust activities, and other community partners

Don't Forget Packet Pick-Up

Race packets will not be available on event day, so all participants must pick them up beforehand.

Packet pickup will be available at:

• Wednesday, September 23 at Brewings & Eats from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
• Saturday, September 26, at the Dogfish Head Milton Brewery from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Race bibs cannot be transferred, and T-shirt sizes cannot be exchanged after registration.

Image: Dogfish Head

Get Creative for the Recycled Costume Contest

The Recycled Costume Contest returns this year, giving participants another reason to save their old beer cans, cardboard, bottle caps, and other reusable materials.

Anyone interested in entering should meet near the stage between 8 a.m. and 8:30 a.m. on race day for judging.

Prizes include:

• Group first place: Private beer dinner for up to 10 people
• Group second place: Private brewery tour for up to 10 people
• Group third place: Private brewery tour for up to six people
• Individual first, second, and third place: Dogfish Head merchandise

Open Water will also help keep participants hydrated by donating water for runners and walkers to enjoy after the race. 

Registered participants age 21 and older can then use their two included beverage tickets during the post-race celebration.

Image: Dogfish Head

More Events Are Planned Before Race Day

Dogfish Head is also hosting several activities leading up to the Dash.

Join the Run Club

Runners can train with the Dogfish Head Run Club, which meets every second and fourth Wednesday for a 3(ish) mile run through Rehoboth Beach led by Charm City Run.

Participants who attend an in-person Run Club between June 10 and September 1 receive 10% off Dogfish Dash registration, and every qualifying run earns an entry for a chance to win free registration.

Fireside Chat With Sussex County Land Trust

The weekend kicks off on Friday, September 25, with a Fireside Chat at the Dogfish INN beginning at 5 p.m.

Guests can gather around the fire with representatives from the Sussex County Land Trust to learn more about local trails, conservation, and preservation efforts before race weekend officially begins.

Turn Race Weekend Into a Getaway

For anyone traveling to Milton or simply looking to make a weekend out of the event, the Dogfish INN is offering special Dash weekend accommodations.

Guests who book the package receive:

• VIP seating at the Fireside Chat
• Light grab-and-go breakfast on race morning
• Reserved parking at the Milton Brewery on race day

A two-night minimum stay is required for the special package.

Image: Dogfish Inn

A Fun Way to Support Conservation

Whether you're running the 5K, walking with your dog, showing off a recycled costume, or simply joining the celebration afterward, the Dogfish Dash continues to be one of Milton's signature community events. 

Any questions? Email Sarah Bluhm at [email protected] and she will get back to you as soon as she can! 

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