MERIDIAN, Miss. (Queen City Newsfeed) – Downtown Meridian will turn green Saturday as residents and visitors gather for the annual St. Patrick’s Ale Trail, an evening event combining a themed footrace, drinks and a tour of local bars and restaurants.
The celebration on March 14 will begin with the “Ginger Dash,” a short race scheduled for 4 p.m. on the City Hall lawn. Participation is free, but runners must either be natural redheads or wear a red wig to compete. Event organizers say a limited number of wigs will be available at the starting area for those who arrive without one.
Participants must sign a waiver before the race, and organizers encourage runners to register in advance at:
https://app.seemylegacy.com/preview?itemId=59602
The winner of the dash will receive a prize package that includes a free pair of On Cloud running shoes from Loeb’s and a custom crowler from Threefoot Brewing.
Following the race, the Ale Trail will begin at 5 p.m. and continue through 9 p.m. Organizers say the event is designed as a walking tour of downtown establishments, with participating bars and restaurants offering ales, cocktails, mocktails and small bites.
Attendees can pick up an official Ale Trail card at the City Hall lawn between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. Participants will visit downtown venues and collect stamps or marks at each stop along the trail.
The evening will conclude back at the City Hall lawn, where participants can return their completed cards at 9 p.m. Door prize drawings will begin at 9:15 p.m., and attendees must be present to win.
Organizers say the event is intended to bring people downtown, support local businesses and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with a community gathering.
The Ale Trail is free to enter, though food and drinks will be available for purchase at participating locations.
