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Headbanger Half

Home » Races » Menomonee Falls » Headbanger Half
Date
July 12, 2026
Starting Time

9:00 AM CDT

Course

Road

Fees

$50

Location

Menomonee Falls

Participants

100-500

Terrain

Fast & Flat

Environment

Forested, Park Run

Temperature
High: 65°
/ Low: 50°
Perfect For:
Fun Run
Beginner Friendly
Great Swag
Family Friendly
Charity Race
Overview

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.

Course Description

It doesn’t get much flatter than the paved Bugline Trail ????️. This fast, tree-lined route offers plenty of shade ????, with stretches that run alongside scenic quarry views. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just enjoying the peaceful surroundings, the Bugline delivers a smooth and scenic run from start to finish.

On the half marathon course, you’ll cross train tracks at mile 3.75 ????. Do not race the train—it’s much faster (and bigger) than you!

We’ll have timing mats on both sides of the tracks, so your results will stay accurate. Think of it as a quick break from the mosh pit ???? before jumping back in without penalty.

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