The New Orleans Hash House Harriers describes themselves as “a drinking club with a malfunction.” Their goals are simple, to promote physical fitness among members, get rid of weekend hangovers, build a good thirst and satisfy it in beer, and finally persuade older members that they are not as old as they feel. The Harriers also sponsor the Red Dress Run through the Marigny each summer. It is a great event with more than 4000 participating runners. It’s usually the middle of August when it’s really hot and humid, so give these folks a lot of credit for running this time of year.
The route
The race is generally through the Marigny and begins at Washington Square Park, located at the corner of Royal Street and Elysian Fields. The festivities begin at 9 am, with the royal race starting at noon, passing through the Marigny.
It’s all for charity
The Harriers, while arguably an eccentric bunch, are a charitable bunch. All money goes to local charities.
The rules
Because Red Dress Run is in the residential section of Marigny, there are rules you must follow.
- Participants will be able to bring small chests of soft ice (12 x 12 in.) That will be subject to search.
- GLASS will not be allowed in or within the park at any time. Violators will have their numbers and armbands removed and escorted off the premises.
- Vehicle parking at the Marigny is somewhat limited, and if it’s like most events in New Orleans, you should expect the meter maids to be handing out tickets. Therefore, we suggest and hope that you consider alternatives to each person who takes their own car. Gather groups to share the ride, take a taxi or park elsewhere and use the trams or some other means of public transportation.
- In the same vein, we would like to ask participants to respect the residents of Marigny, their properties and the neighborhood in general.
Registry
You can register early to get a discount. It’s also not a good idea to wait until race day because this is a popular event and registration is limited.
