Registration is open for Wreaths Across America’s annual Stem to Stone Races.

Both in-person and virtual options are available to participants.

Registrations are open for both the virtual race as well as the annual live Stem to Stone Races, scheduled for Saturday, July 29. The two options allow participants to join in from anywhere while helping sponsor veterans’ wreaths for the participating location of their choosing.

The in-person event will take place at Balsam Valley Amphitheater, 1426 U.S. Route 1 in Columbia Falls, on the tip lands where balsam is grown and harvested each year to make the veterans’ wreaths. Those wreathes are then placed on the headstones of this nation’s heroes, according to a news release from Sean Sullivan with Wreaths Across America.

Race options for early registration (prices will increase July 1 through race day):

• One-Mile Kids’ Fun Run (in person only), $17
• 5K in person, $45
• 5K virtual, $45
• 10K in person, $50
• 10K virtual, $50

To register or learn more, visit runsignup.com or Wreaths Across America’s 2023 Stem to Stone Races on Facebook.

Every race registration sponsors a fresh balsam veteran’s wreath for placement on National Wreaths Across America Day Saturday, Dec. 16. People can personalize their efforts by designating a local sponsorship group or participating location they would like their sponsored wreath allocated to during the registration process. They should have the location or group ID available during checkout.

These races serve to help further community awareness and understanding of WAA’s yearlong mission to remember the fallen, honor those that served, and teach the next generation about the value of freedom.

Check out other upcoming area events!