How about a run around the park this Saturday?

Participants in the 2016 Mason District Running Festival.

The Mason District Running Festival, Saturday, Sept. 23, offers a great opportunity to get some outdoor exercise, whether you’re new at running or havemany races under your belt.

This free event offers several runs throughout the day, including a six-hour run at 8 a.m., a 5K at 9:30 a.m., a 0.5K fun run for kids at 10 a.m., a two-mile race director’s special at 11 a.m., and an 8K combo race at noon.

All proceeds from the event will benefit Shelter House.

This is the second running festival in Mason District Park organized by Bernard Pesjak, a Pinecrest resident, long-distance runner, and running coach.

“This is a low-key, fun event. The main idea is to go out, have fun, and enjoy nature,” says Pesjak, the founder of Get Up and Go Coaching.

It’s also a good place to practice for the Taste of Annandale 5K Race on Oct. 14, which also makes use of the trails in Mason District Park.

The races at the Mason District Running Festival aren’t certified, so there won’t be official timing. All participants will have a chance to win raffle prizes. Runners can register on site but are encouraged to register online for planning purposes.