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Running Between the Vines

Running Between the Vines: wine, cheese, chocolate amid Michigan vineyards.

Race Date

Oct 3, 2026

Location

Jackson, MI

Solid Pick51

Quick facts

Date
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Location
Jackson, Michigan
Distance
Half marathon (13.1 mi)
Course
Loop Course
Terrain
Road
USATF certified
Not listed

Highlights

Good For

Hidden GemBeginner Friendly

Atmosphere

Party FinishLocal CommunityGreat Post RaceGreat Swag

Course

Fast FlatScenic Route

The Experience

Now in its 10th edition, Running Between the Vines is the kind of half marathon that feels like a secret you want to share. Held at Sandhill Crane Vineyards just west of Ann Arbor, the course winds through a landscape of rolling vineyards, with the quiet beauty of autumn in the air. The course is flat and fast—a loop on paved roads through the vineyards—making it an inviting choice for both first-timers and runners chasing a PR. The field is intimate (about 150–200 finishers), creating a friendly, community vibe rather than a crowded race.

The finish line is the reward: music, cheese, chocolate, and wine pairings. Every finisher takes home a custom wine glass and a bottle-stopper medal, and half marathoners get a full glass of wine. The post-race party lingers in the vineyard, where runners and friends gather under the October sky. With easy day-of logistics and a strong sense of local charm, this race is a hidden gem for anyone who loves running, good wine, and an afternoon well spent.

Race-provided description

Welcome to Running between the Vines!

OCTOBER 3, 2026

Join us in the naturally calming and stunning landscape of Sandhill Crane Vineyards. Friends, running, a beautiful course, and a finish in the vineyards that includes, music, cheese, and chocolate paired perfectly with wine!

5K • 5M • 13.1M

JACKSON, MI

Entrants receive a custom wine glass, custom bottle stopper finisher's medal, post race food and wine tasting and awards eligibility. Half Marathon entrants receive an additional ticket for a full glass of wine! Add on a race shirt or zip hoodie during registration.

Sponsors & Partners

Home Details Register (https://haku.ly/e0e6ebde08) Volunteer (https://runningfitevents.redpodium.com/2026-volunteer-collection-bank) Lodging FAQ More Information Results (https://rftiming.racetecresults.com/series.aspx?CId=16365&RId=722) Photos (https://geosnapshot.com/e/2024-running-between-the-vines/29167?utm_campaign=event-customer-share-2024-running-between-the-vines&utm_source=event-customer

Logistics

Race Day

Saturday, October 3, 2026

Start Time

TBA

Start Location

4724 Walz Road Jackson, Jackson, MI, 49201

Directions

Course Info

Course Type

Loop Course

Terrain

road

Scenery

Rural

Difficulty

Ultra-Flat

Quality Score

Solid Pick51
Methodology
Heritage20/20

10 years running

Size12/15

~205 finishers a year

Momentum3/5

shrinking

Loyalty11/20

11% returning runners

Course & details3/15

6 timing sources

National draw0/10

runners from 1 state

Front-pack speed3/5

winner 1:22:20

Weather0/10

typical high 76°F

Race Day Weather

5-year historical avg

Start (Low)

58°

Afternoon (High)

72°

Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively

0.2"

Precipitation

8 mph

Wind

83%

Humidity

Frequently asked

When is the Running Between the Vines?

The Running Between the Vines is held on Saturday, October 3, 2026.

Where does the Running Between the Vines take place?

It takes place in Jackson, Michigan.

What distances does the Running Between the Vines offer?

The half marathon (13.1 miles).

Is the Running Between the Vines course flat and good for a PR?

The Running Between the Vines is a ultra-flat, loop course course.

HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.

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