When registration opened on February 3, 2026, we expanded the field by adding 200 more 10K spots compared to last year. Even with that increase, the race still reached capacity. Participant limits are carefully determined in coordination with local law enforcement and public safety agencies. These guidelines ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the course. We expect the Kids' Mile to also sell out prior to race week.
If you'd like to be added to the waitlist, please email the race director using the form on the website.
• Short sleeve race T-shirt (only guaranteed for those who register before March 28, 2026, then until supplies last)
• Custom Finisher Medal
• Fun with Family & Friends!
• Chip-Timed with Instant Results
No. We expect each race to sell out, so sign up early!
Runners are highly encouraged to pick up race packets on the north side of the Handley High School bowl (Handley Avenue) on the following days:
Thursday, April 30: 5-7 p.m.
Friday, May 1: 2-3:45 p.m. (Kids' Bloomin' Mile Race Day)
10K Race Day, Saturday, May 2: 7-8 a.m.
**Attention** Parking Directions for Thursday, 4/30 Packet Pickup:
We want to ensure your safety during packet pickup. Due to setup for the Grandstand, Corporate Suites and Fireworks areas, Handley Blvd may be closed to traffic during packet pickup on Thursday. Please plan to arrive at the Handley lot via Jefferson Street; use the access road behind the school and enter the student lot. Upon departure, please use the back right entrance which will lead you to Briarmont Avenue. This will be one way traffic.
You may authorize another person to pick up your packet/bib number. Please have patience with the volunteers at check-in and provide one name at a time.
For the safety and security of all our runners, people are not permitted to run with someone else’s race bib.
Yes, there will be plenty of places along the course and at the finish to cheer on your family or friends.
The awards ceremony will happen immediately after each race: approximately 6 p.m. for the Kids' Mile and 10:15 am for the 10K.
Kids' Bloomin' Mile:
Age Groups: 6-7, 8-9, 10-11 and 12-14
Awards for the top 3 male/females in their division. Age group winners (1st place) have the opportunity to ride in the Grand Feature Parade on Saturday, May 2.
Live results will be avaiable at the Kiosks near the finish line and uploaded to the Registration Page. Scan the QR code on your race bib to access results.
Kids' Mile: No aid stations on the course. Water and snacks will be available near the registration area.
10K: Yes. There will be an aid station near mile 2, 4 and 5.5 with water and electrolyte drinks. Water and refreshments will also be available near the start/finish area.
Kids' Bloomin' Mile – 6-14 years old
10K – you must be 10 years old.
Kids' Bloomin' Mile - Friday, May 1, 4 PM
Race starts with the 12-14 combined Boys/Girls division then works backwards: 10-11 boys, 10-11 girls, 8-9 boys, etc.
Estimated Start Times:
4:00 PM - 12/14 Boys/Girls
4:15 PM - 10-11 Boys
4:30 PM - 10-11 Girls
4:45 PM - 8-9 Boys
5:00 PM - 8-9 Girls
5:15 PM - 6-7 Boys
5:30 PM - 6-7 Girls
10K – Saturday, May 2, 8:30 AM
As official Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival events, our races operate on strict timelines to coordinate with the many Festival activities happening concurrently.
Kids' Mile: Due to time restrictions surrounding our event, a division must start every 15 minutes. Runners must be able to finish in less than 14 minutes.
The 10K course limit is 1 hour 30 minutes (~14:30 pace). Road closures are limited and must reopen on schedule. For runner's safety, 10K runners above the established pace may be directed to continue to the finish on the sidewalk.
We follow Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) recommendations that strongly advise against allowing strollers, dogs and headphones at races. Unlike running alone with a stroller or headphones, races often involve hundreds of runners. Races run on roads sometimes open to minimal traffic with road hazards such as potholes, loose gravel, blind turns, and given that this is the Shenandoah Valley, major hills. While Frederick County Parks and Recreation tries to make our race courses as safe as possible through good course management, marshaling, and marking, we believe that runners have a responsibility for their own safety and the safety of the runners around them.
Please arrive early to find parking, pick up your race packet (if needed) and get ready to run!
Roads close at 3 p.m. on Friday, May 1 for the Kids' Mile
Roads close at 7:45 a.m. on Saturday, May 2 for the 10K
The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® will close the roads surrounding Handley High School and along the course at:
Friday, May 1 at 3 PM
Saturday, May 2 at 7:45 AM
Limited parking is available in the Handley High School lot. Accessible parking will be located in the Handley parking lot near the tennis courts. If you park in the Handley lot, please move your car after the race concludes. If using street parking in surrounding neighborhoods, please pay attention to posted signs. Please view road closure information prior to race day.
No. Please leave valuables in your car.
Yes, there are restrooms near the start/finish line.
