Alright runners… this one’s for you!
Whether you’re chasing a PR, tackling trails, polar plunging for fun or just here to support your favorite endurance junkie, Greeley is ready for your race weekend. From pre-race prep and carb-loading to recovery and family-friendly fun, here’s how to turn your Weld Your Mettle weekend into a full Northern Colorado experience.
Wednesday, May 27: Get Loose with the Locals
Already in town early? Perfect.
Before festival weekend officially kicks off, join the Greeley Run Club for a social run at WeldWerks Brewing Co. on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. It’s a great way to shake out your legs, meet fellow runners, get some last-minute miles in and settle those pre-race jitters.
Bonus: finishing your run with a craft beer, burger or just some good conversation is highly encouraged.
If race weekends are your version of vacation, this is how you start strong.
Thursday, May 28: Arrive + Carb Load Like a Champion
Welcome to Weld County. Now it’s time to fuel up.
After checking into your hotel, campground or home-away-from-home, make your way to Greeley for one very important task: carbs.
Top Carb-Loading Stops:
The Original Roma Restaurant: Pasta, pizza and hearty portions that understand your life choices.
Pellegrini Cucina Italiana: Cozy, classic Italian and exactly the kind of meal your legs will appreciate later.
Santeramo’s Pizza House & Italian Food: Italian food as it should be, good and served by the ton.
After dinner, enjoy a light walk through Downtown Greeley, stretch it out and get to bed at a reasonable hour, or at least pretend you will.
Friday, May 29: Race Prep + Explore Weld County
Today’s all about preparation, packet pickup and keeping those legs fresh.
Take it easy, stay hydrated and spend the day exploring Eaton or Greeley without overdoing it. This is a great day for:
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Race check-in and course prep
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Shopping for any last-minute gear
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Easy stretching or a short shakeout run
Not camping? No worries. Greeley has plenty of comfortable places to stay, so you can focus on race day, not roughing it.
For dinner, revisit your carb-loading strategy. No shame in pasta round two.
Saturday, May 30: Race Day + You Did the Thing
It’s go time.
Whether you’re running, cheering or questioning every life choice around mile 10, today is what you came for.
Before the Race:
Need a dependable breakfast? Paragon Family Restaurant opens at 6 a.m. and is a solid stop for pre-race fuel.
After the Finish Line:
Celebrate your accomplishment however feels right. Medal selfies, naps or all of the above.
For an evening wind-down, head to Kress Cinema & Lounge in Downtown Greeley for a movie, drinks and some well-earned relaxation. Because after all that movement, reclining seats feel elite.
Sunday, May 31: Recovery, Polar Plunge + Sore but Thriving
You survived. Now it’s time to recover.
After your polar plunge and sauna session, treat those hardworking muscles to some serious TLC.
Recovery Must:
Book a massage with Sweet Be Wellness and give your body the thank-you note it deserves.
Want to keep exploring?
Spend the afternoon checking out Downtown Greeley’s colorful art murals, local boutiques, coffee shops and easygoing charm. It’s active recovery, with better snacks.
Monday, June 1: Breakfast + One Last Weld County Memory
Before you head home, finish strong.
Breakfast Stop:
Greeley Breakfast Club: Because biscuits and gravy, pancakes or a giant breakfast plate just hit differently after race weekend.
Swap race stories, celebrate your victories, big or small, and soak in one final taste of Weld County before heading out.
Pro Tips for Weld Your Mettle Weekend
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Hydrate before, during and after
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Colorado weather changes fast, so pack layers
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Recovery tools matter: foam rollers, comfy shoes and electrolytes are your friends
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Bring your crew because Greeley offers plenty beyond the course
Run Hard. Recover Well. Explore More.
Weld Your Mettle is more than a race. It’s an excuse to experience the best of Weld County while pushing your limits. Whether you’re here for the miles, the medals or the memories, Greeley makes an excellent home base for race weekend.
See you at the starting line… or the brunch table.