Blue Blaze Festival

Shawnee, OH

October 12-13, 2024

The Buckeye Trail Blue Blaze Festival is a thrilling celebration of the great outdoors, adventure, and the magnificent Buckeye Trail! Whether you're a seasoned trail runner, a nature-loving hiker, or someone curious about backpacking, the Blue Blaze Festival welcomes everyone to celebrate the Buckeye Trail. Hosted in the heart of downtown historic Shawnee, Ohio, this event promises an unforgettable weekend filled with fun, excitement, and a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of our world.

Friday Evening: Farmer's Market and Live Music

Kick off your Blue Blaze Festival experience with a visit to the Farmer's Market, brimming with fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and delicious local treats. As the sun sets, the vibrant sounds of live music will fill the air, courtesy of Destination Shawnee. It's a family-friendly evening that sets the stage for an amazing weekend.

Saturday: Trail Runs and Hike

Saturday is the main event! Choose your adventure:

  • Trail Runs: Challenge yourself on the rugged and scenic trails of the Wayne National Forest. We offer a variety of distances to suit every level: Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K runs on primarily single-track trails. Test your limits, feel the rush, and experience the thrill of running through the wilderness.

  • 10 Mile Hike: Embark on a 10-mile hike along the legendary Buckeye Trail, surrounded by nature's splendor. Discover the serene beauty of the Wayne National Forest at your own pace.

Registration and Awards

All participants in the Blue Blaze Festival events will receive a stylish event t-shirt as a memento of your adventure. Awards will be presented to the top overall male and female finishers in each of the three running events. Results for all age groups (19 and under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60 and over) will be posted online.

Backpacking Workshop

If you've ever dreamt of exploring the world of backpacking, this is your chance! Appalachian Understories hosts a beginner backpacking workshop. Join us on Friday for an orientation, and by early afternoon, you'll be headed to the trail for a hands-on experience. Return to Shawnee on Saturday with newfound skills and confidence.

Celebrating the Buckeye Trail

The Blue Blaze Festival is a celebration of the Buckeye Trail, and we're proud to partner with Destination Shawnee, the Ohio Environmental Council, and Rural Action to make this event a reality. This section of the Buckeye Trail, nestled in the Wayne National Forest, offers diverse terrain and breathtaking vistas.

Join Us in Shawnee

Mark your calendars, gather your gear, and get ready for an incredible adventure at the Blue Blaze Festival. Together, let's blaze new trails and make lasting memories in the heart of Ohio's natural beauty. See you there!