If your idea of the perfect race is one where you can snag a good seat to watch, the Washington Wine Academy and DC School of Beer has the event for you. Building off the success of their 2011 outing, the tippler school has set up a course that weaves through the indoor walkways and stores at Crystal City Shops. The 1K Wine Walk takes place on Saturday and Sunday, January 14 and 15, and the (new for this year) 1K Beer Walk happens the following weekend, on January 21 and 22.

What does this relay involve? To participate, snag a $35 advance ticket to the “heat” of your choice (as long as there is still space at that time). Every half hour between 2–5:30 PM, racers will cross the starting line and dash – okay, meander – through the route, making stops along the way for sips and nibbles. Each person is given 20 tasting tickets, good for sampling over 30 wines and beers as well as canapes and hors d’oeuvres at stations set up throughout the mall. You’ll also get a commemorative t-shirt, so you can brag to all your friends about your latest marathon-esque accomplishment.

Photos via the Wine Academy on Facebook

Event Date: 01/14,01/15,01/21,01/22
Event Time: 2-5:30 PM
Location: Crystal City Shops
Price: $35
Website: www.washingtonwineacademy.org/1Kwinebeerwalk.html