On any given Tuesday evening, something special is happening at Mill Creek Tapped. Around 5:45 p.m., runners and walkers begin to gather, stretching, laughing, and greeting one another with high-fives and fist bumps. By 6:00 p.m. sharp, there’s a group photo, a quick check-in, and then off they go.

This is the Mill Creek Tapped Run Club, a welcoming, come-as-you-are community founded by Mill Creek resident, Garrett Ware, in July 2023. What started as a simple idea has grown into a weekly tradition where movement, connection, and community come together in a very Mill Creek way.

Garrett’s inspiration came from close to home. Mill Creek Tapped had just opened, and there was excitement around having something new and different in the area. Garrett already knew the power of a pub-based run club through a successful group in Mukilteo, run by his friend Kelly. When Garrett learned that his neighbor and good friend, Kenny, would be managing the Mill Creek location, the pieces fell into place. After a conversation and approval from the Tapped team, plus one simple request for two reserved tables, the Mill Creek Tapped Run Club was born.

From the beginning, Garrett was intentional about what the group would not be. This was never meant to feel exclusive or intimidating. Instead, the goal was simple: get people moving. Run, walk, jog, go solo, or move with friends. All paces, all ages, all experience levels are welcome. That philosophy still defines the group today. While the main group typically runs five to six miles at an 8:30 to 9:00 pace, there are also three-mile runners, walkers, and plenty of people doing their own thing. Some members arrive as first-time runners, others are getting back into movement, and many go on to complete 5Ks, half marathons, full marathons, and even Ironman events. Accomplishments are celebrated often, both big and small.

The atmosphere on run night is equal parts energetic and relaxed. Mill Creek Tapped reserves two tables every Tuesday, creating a familiar home base before and after the run. Garrett makes a point to welcome newcomers personally, helping them decide whether they want to run or walk, and connecting them with others if they would like company. Seasoned runners genuinely enjoy helping new members feel comfortable, which makes that first visit much less intimidating. After the run, most of the group sticks around. Some enjoy an adult beverage, others choose non-alcoholic options, but everyone shares the same space and conversation. Participation comes with a 20% discount on the entire bill, plus perks that add up over time. Free drinks, glassware, appetizers, hats, sweatshirts, and even gift cards reward consistency and make showing up feel extra fun.

While running is what brings people together, the social connection has become the heart of the club. Many members now spend time together outside of run nights, and friendships have naturally formed. What started as a way to get miles in has evolved into something deeper, with a strong sense of belonging and support. The partnership with Mill Creek Tapped plays a big role in what makes the group special. The staff looks forward to seeing the runners each week, and the feeling is mutual. Those two reserved tables are often full, buzzing with conversation and laughter. The welcoming environment makes it easy to relax, unwind, and connect after the run, and the beverage selection does not hurt either.

Traditions have formed along the way. The pre-run photo at 6:00 p.m. sharp is sacred. Holiday-themed runs for Halloween and Christmas bring costumes and bonus fun, often rewarded with a free beverage. Members sometimes bring desserts to share, with homemade sourdough becoming a recent favorite. No matter the weather, run club always happens. Rain or shine, Tuesday means run club.

Growth has been steady and consistent. Most weeks see 15 to 20 participants, with numbers climbing higher on especially nice evenings. What matters most to Garrett is not the size, but the consistency. Showing up week after week has turned a running group into something that feels like a family, full of people who encourage one another and celebrate progress together. Looking ahead, Garrett is excited about welcoming new faces and hopes to finally roll out Mill Creek Tapped Run Club shirts and sweatshirts this year. And for anyone wondering about dues, there are none. As Garrett likes to joke, the first year is only one hundred dollars, followed quickly by the reassurance that it is completely free. In fact, you actually save money by coming.

For those curious about joining, the best place to start is via Instagram at @millcreekpubrun, or simply stop by Mill Creek Tapped on a Tuesday evening and ask what the smiling, stretching group is up to. Chances are, you will be invited to join in.