Saturday, September 27, 2025, the Headbanger Half rolls into Menomonee Falls with a rock‑themed twist: Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, a 2‑Mile Walk, and a free Little Banger 1K for kids. Held on the scenic Bugline Trail inside Menomonee Park, this run combines pavement, playlists, and playful energy.
🎸 Race Experience & Atmosphere
Racing starts at 9:00 AM CDT for the main distances, preceded at 8:45 AM by the Little Banger kid’s run. The Bugline Trail is flat, paved, and tree‑lined, offering shaded views and quarry vistas. The half marathon route includes a safe crossing of train tracks at mile 3.75, timed with mats on each side. Aid stations provide water, energy gels, and Gatorade—self‑serve style.
🎯 What Makes It Unique
This rock‑inspired event channels nostalgia via music-themed branding, CD‑medals, and vinyl record awards for overall winners. It’s an all-ages race festival—with walk and youth options, participation incentives, and cotton T‑shirts reminiscent of concert tees. Volunteer-run organization includes quirky touches like custom race medals from CDs.
Headbanger Half brings the spirit of rock concerts to a community road run. With its flat tree-shaded Bugline Trail, playful branding, and inclusive distance offerings (including walk and kids’ runs), it’s a fresh, entertaining race for families and casual runners. Expect music‑infused fun, vinyl medals, and a tight‑knit local festival vibe—ideal for those craving a themed, approachable race that’s more tempo party than pain cave.
