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The first day of summer is the longest day of the year, meaning it provides the most daylight. While you surely have a summer bucket list brewing, how you ring in the summer season is important, too!
If you’re a runner, jogger or walker, consider the 2nd Annual Southfield Summer Soulstice on Saturday, June 20. The event includes a 5K run/walk, 10K run and one-mile family sunset stroll, followed by an evening of activities like live music, a beer tent, food trucks, fun for children and more.
The evening will take place on Lawrence Tech University’s campus, 21000 W. 10 Mile Rd., Southfield, where each run begins and ends. Gregg Leshman, race director for Run As One Productions, LLC., said he expects at least 500 participants and over 1,000 cheering spectators at this year’s Southfield Summer Soulstice.
“With a strong support and sponsor foundation, we’re able to reach larger audiences and expect an even greater turnout than our first inaugural year,” Leshman said. Sponsors include Vibe Credit Union, RUNdetroit, Southfield Police Department, Lawrence Tech University and New Balance Detroit.
Beginning at 6:15 p.m., attendees can enjoy Yoga Soul before the races. Join Dawn Priebe of the Milford and Farmington-based studio for some basic yoga poses and stretches. The races start at 7:30 p.m. and once they’re complete, everyone will get to enjoy the festivities, including food from trucks like The Pita Post, Delectabowl and Eskimo Jacks Artisan Cookies and Ice Cream.
Children will be able to enjoy bounce houses, volleyball, soccer, Frisbee, softball, hula-hoops, chalk, arts and crafts, glow sticks and more. A DJ will be playing soul, Motown and R&B tunes for all ages.
Leshman promises that the start/finish area banners and truss system will be even more spectacular than last year, along with several other improvements that were made for Summer Soulstice’s second year.
“The ribbon and medals are awesome with the city skyline and custom engraving. The participants will also be receiving a tech-shirt and a sport backpack. So lots of new and exciting things are happening this year,” Leshman said.
Proceeds from the races will benefit over half a dozen different local charities, including Make-A-Wish Michigan, Michigan Parkinson Foundation, Soles 4 Souls and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society Michigan Chapter.
“The hope is to match or increase last year’s donations made to each charity. We’re also pleased to welcome the ‘Friends of the Southfield Police Department’ charity this year, raising awareness and funds for officers that have been injured or perished on the job and their families,” Leshman said. “And this year, the Southfield Firefighters Charities are supporting the Great Lakes Burn Camp, raising awareness and funds for burn injured children in a unique camp experience.”
Online registration for the Southfield Summer Soulstice races is available through Friday, June 19 at noon, and you can register on-site the day of the races beginning at 1 p.m. Registration costs $40 for the 5K run/walk, $45 for the 10K and $25 for the one mile family sunset stroll.
Leshman pointed out that even if you’re not an experienced runner, you’ll enjoy participating in the Southfield Summer Soulstice.
“This is also a great time to get in shape and set a goal for yourself if you’re a first time 5K or 10K runner or walker,” he said.
After the races, awards will be distributed at the finish line and it’ll be time to celebrate! Perhaps you’ll choose to do so underneath the beer tent with a brew from Rochester Mills Beer Co. They will have their signature IPA, Pine Knob Pilsner, on hand, as well as Rochester Red Ale.
“Metro Detroiters have endured yet another long, cold winter season and we deserve every nice warm, sunny day that summer has to offer; why not start if off right with the longest night of the year?” Leshman said.
For more information on the Southfield Summer Soulstice run and festival, visit the official website or Facebook page.
