Get ready to lace up your running shoes! The YMCA Critz Tybee Run Fest kicks off tomorrow, Friday, January 31, bringing runners, families, and spectators together for two days of races, music, and community fun. Hosted by the YMCA of Coastal Georgia, proceeds from the event support youth programs across the region.

Participants can choose to run a single race or test their endurance by completing all five events, totaling 26.2 miles — the equivalent of a full marathon.

Friday: The Taste

• Mauldin & Jenkins Kid’s Run (5:30 p.m.) – With start lines for both beginner and intermediate runners. This is a free event for kids 14 and under. Adults are encouraged to run with small children

• Chamacos Tacos & Surf 5K (6:00 p.m.) – Celebrate with post-race snacks and beverages under the tent

Friday night also offers a preview of the Savannah Magazine VIP Experience, featuring access to a private lounge with snacks, beverages, and souvenir cups for participants.

Saturday: The Test

• Southern Cross Hospitality 10K (7:00 a.m.)

• Chu’s Mart Half-Marathon (8:30 a.m.)

• Keystone Association Managers 2.8-Mile Beach Run (12:00 p.m.)

• West Construction Company One-Mile Run (1:00 p.m.)

• Savannah Magazine VIP Experience: (6:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.) – Enjoy bottomless mimosas, local treats, and a private lounge 

Runners and spectators can also look forward to:

• Live Music by Gary Strickland and food from rotating local vendors

• Creature Comforts Beer: Available for those of legal age

• A welcoming community atmosphere with over 1,200 expected participants and a warmer weather forecast than usual

Shannon Horst, Race Director, emphasized the event’s impact: “This festival is about much more than racing. Every mile and every registration directly supports youth programs that help kids across Coastal Georgia learn, grow, and thrive.”

"The YMCA Critz Tybee Run Fest is a powerful example of how our community comes together to support meaningful causes," said Joel Smoker, CEO of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia. "Every race registration directly contributes to programs that help children across Coastal Georgia build confidence, learn new skills, and reach their full potential. We're proud to continue this tradition with the support of all our sponsors and the Critz family, and are grateful for the community's continued involvement."

In a continued effort to keep Tybee clean, the Y has partnered with Hiccup Earth to replace plastic water cups with reusable options at aid stations. Savannah Distributing will provide post-race beer in recyclable cans, and Curbie Sanitation is providing additional recycling bins throughout the race site.

Packet pickup begins Friday at 2 p.m. on-site Just south of the Tybee Island Pier. Registration remains open at TybeeRunFest.com and will be available on-site.