5th Annual Discover Downtown Columbia 5K Set for September 16

The Downtown Columbia Partnership is hosting the fifth annual Discover Downtown Columbia 5K on Sunday, Sept. 16, starting at 9 a.m., at the Lakefront Plaza in Downtown Columbia.

The 5K course takes runners and walkers through the landmarks of Downtown Columbia, highlighting its history as well as the future that’s unfolding. This year’s race features a loop trail that starts and ends at the People Tree and winds past The Metropolitan, TEN.M and m.flats apartments and One and Two Merriweather office buildings, through Symphony Woods and into Merriweather Post Pavilion where participants will cross the stage and see the new renovations. The route continues past Toby’s Dinner Theatre and the Central Branch of the Howard County Library and around Lake Kittamqundi and back to the People Tree for the finish line.

Prizes will be awarded. A live band and complimentary post-race beer and other refreshments await runners at the finish.

Presenting Sponsors Downtown Columbia Arts and Culture Commission and Merriweather Post Pavilion are providing the first 400 Discover Downtown Columbia 5K registrants a lawn seat pass for the 2019 concert of their choice (subject to availability and contract terms).

The Early Bird registration fee is $35, $45 after August 15. Walkers, as well as runners, are welcome. Register at discoverdowntown5k.eventbrite.com.

The Downtown Columbia Partnership leads the promotion and advances the growth of Downtown Columbia as a vibrant, economically robust and desirable place for employment, entertainment, living and learning.The Partnership’s functions also include supporting transportation initiatives; initiating and sponsoring cultural arts and sustainability programs; implementing downtown beautification and maintenance projects; and promoting public safety. For information, visit DTCPartnership.com