Part workout, part boozy celebration, the 2017 Oktoberfest 5K is the perfect example of balance. It begins with a 5K and ends with some of the best brews in Columbia, courtesy of Frisco Tap House (which is also sponsoring the event). It begins at Charm City Run at 8 a.m. on Saturday, October 7th, but that's just the beginning of the fun.

Sign up for the run and pull on your provided race-day t-shirt before you get to the starting line. Then walk, jog, or sprint along the 5K course, which takes you right to the doorstep of Frisco Tap House. Awaiting you is a day-long party with live music, two complimentary beers per person (and as many more beers as you'd like to purchase), and a soft pretzel. Registration costs $45 per runner.

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/Susanne Nilsson

The Patapsco Female Institute in Ellicott City has been around for 179 years—plenty of time to attract some spirits who've crossed over. Rumor has it that the awe-inspiring mansion is home to several resident ghosts, but you can make your own decision after participating in Ghostly Guides.

On Friday, October 6th, the Patapsco Female Institute opens its doors for a guided tour of the crumbling building. Your tour guide will give you an insider look at the history of the Victorian-era girls' school as you meander its halls. Afterward, you'll hear the rumors and tales that swirl around the institute while you gather around a campfire with some s'mores. Finally, you'll get the chance to explore the school at night with the same tools that paranormal investigators use to find spirits, so don't miss this cool opportunity!

CC-BY-SA-2.0/Flickr/Lars Plougmann

You may not realize that Maryland is a hotspot for craft beer and artisan spirits, but if you attend The Hops and Harvest Festival, that fact will quickly become evident. Black Flag Brewing Co., Tenth Ward Distilling Company, and Smoketown Brewing Station are just three of the artisan booze producers who will show off their signature creations at the festival.

Come to Wincopin Circle in Columbia on Saturday, September 30th to taste test the libations. More than 25 of Maryland's best breweries, wineries, and distilleries are slated to attend, including the aforementioned businesses, so you can expect a wide variety of adult beverages to try. Grab your souvenir cup and move from vendor to vendor. Between sips, soak up the booze with food from local restaurants such as King's Bacon, River House Pizza Co., and Carnivore BBQ. The fest will also host live music, lawn games, and booths helmed by local boutiques and artisans. Tickets start at $35 for beer tasters.

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr/chong chongchongchong