DUMBO — Picking up a race number and running 13.1 miles never sounded so fun.
The Brooklyn Half Marathon kicks off with three days of beer gardens, espresso bars, music festivals and food trucks preceding the run. And unlike most race expos, this event, called a "pre-party" by race organizers, will last three days in the Tobacco Warehouse on the waterfront in DUMBO.
"The race has been running since 1981, but this year’s is like none before," New York Road Runners said in a statement. "From the three-day bash Brooklyn Half Pre-Party to the home stretch dash down the world-famous Coney Island boardwalk, it’s an all-encompassing celebration of the beloved borough.”
Starting Wednesday, the race festivities feature local Brooklyn bands and DJs daily from noon to 9 p.m. The Energy was scheduled to play on Wednesday at 7 p.m., Broadway Brassy and the Brass Knuckles was set to play at 4 p.m. on Thursday and Charly Bliss planned to hit the stage at 2:15 p.m. on Friday. For a full list of bands, click here.
La Bella Torte, Andy’s Italian Ice, Trusty’s Burgers & Bites, Shorty’s and Hibachi Heaven are among the vendors and food trucks selling refreshments, and Brooklyn Brewery and Sixpoint will serve beer in the outdoor garden.
The 33rd annual Brooklyn Half Marathon will start at 7 a.m. on Saturday at the Brooklyn Museum. Throughout the course there will be 13 entertainment zones, DJ's and a Coney Island finish complete with hot dogs, beer, rollercoaster rides, stilt walkers and more.
New York Road Runners has increased security as a result of the Boston Marathon bombings in April. All bags must be checked, there will be security screenings and no trash cans will be available in the race vicinity.
Registration was still open for the race as of Wednesday. Register or get more information here.
