Honey & Hops Brew Works Hosts Inaugural Mead Mile Race & Festival to Support Men’s Health

Honey & Hops Brew Works, Warren County’s first-ever meadery, is set to host its inaugural Mead Mile Race and Festival on November 2, 2024, in downtown Front Royal. This unique event blends fitness, community, and craft mead, with all proceeds going to Movember, a global men’s health organization that supports cancer research and suicide prevention efforts.

Founded by the Rushing brothers—Isaac, Adam, and Ian—Honey & Hops Brew Works has made charitable giving a central focus since opening in 2020. The brothers’ dedication to supporting men’s health has deepened since their father, an Army veteran, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2022. This year’s event is especially personal, as it provides an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for an organization that has become close to their hearts.

“We’ve always wanted to be a company that gives back,” said Isaac Rushing. “With Movember’s focus on men’s cancers and suicide prevention, and with our personal connection to prostate cancer through our dad, this cause means the world to us. The Mead Mile is a fun way to get involved and make a difference.”

What Is the Mead Mile?

The Mead Mile Race offers a playful twist on the classic “Beer Mile,” combining short bursts of running or walking with samples of Honey & Hops’ mead. Participants will complete a mile in four segments, pausing every quarter-mile to sip mead, making the event both fitness-focused and a celebration of the craft beverage.

The event is open to all ages and fitness levels, whether you choose to walk, jog, or run. It’s designed as a lighthearted way to bring people together while promoting health and wellness. Race participants can register now, and all proceeds will benefit Movember’s vital work in men’s health.

Event Details:

• Date: November 2, 2024
• Time: Races begin at 10:20 a.m.
• Location: Downtown Front Royal, VA
• Registration: Open at Race Registration

Beyond the race, the Mead Mile Festival will feature live music, food trucks, craft vendors, and a variety of meads to sample. It’s a community celebration that brings together fitness, fun, and flavor while supporting a good cause. Whether you’re a runner or prefer to cheer from the sidelines, there’s something for everyone at this event.

A Community-Focused Meadery

Honey & Hops Brew Works has been making waves in the Shenandoah Valley since it opened its doors. Located just 70 miles from Washington, D.C., the meadery specializes in creating innovative and traditional meads, using honey as the primary fermentable ingredient. This ancient beverage has been experiencing a modern resurgence, thanks in part to meaderies like Honey & Hops that are reimagining it for today’s craft beverage scene.

Since opening its tasting room in April 2020, the Rushing brothers have prioritized not only the quality of their meads but also their commitment to the community. Their partnership with Movember began in the meadery’s first year of business, and the annual donation drives have become a key part of their charitable efforts. The Mead Mile marks an expansion of that relationship, offering a larger platform to raise funds and awareness for men’s health.

The Mead Mile Festival is designed to be family-friendly, ensuring that everyone—regardless of age—can enjoy the day. Alongside the race, attendees can explore various local vendors, enjoy performances by local musicians, and try food from a variety of food trucks stationed at the festival.

Join the Fun—Sponsors and Vendors Welcome!

Honey & Hops is also calling on local businesses, sponsors, food trucks, and craft vendors to get involved in the event. Those interested in participating as sponsors or vendors can reach out via email at info@honeyandhopsbrewworks.com to join the festivities and connect with a wide audience.

With the scenic Shenandoah Valley as a backdrop, the Mead Mile Race and Festival promises to be a day full of fun, fitness, and community spirit. Whether you’re running, walking, or simply enjoying the festival atmosphere, Honey & Hops Brew Works is inviting everyone to take part in this exciting new tradition that not only showcases their craft meads but also supports a cause that has touched their family deeply.

For more information on the Mead Mile Race and Festival, or to register, visit Honey & Hops Brew Works.