Fresno’s alcohol-free morning party Grand Rising is preparing for what organizers are calling “The Final Rise,” bringing together DJs, runners, yoga, wellness vendors, and a few unannounced surprises on Saturday, Sept. 12.

The event, organized by Grizzly Fest co-founder Evan Nebeker, will return to Azara Supper Club in north Fresno, where Grand Rising has previously combined music, mocktails, healthy food, and wellness activities in a sober, family-friendly setting.

Grand Rising launched in August 2025 as an alternative to traditional alcohol-centered events, beginning with DJs, healthy food and wellness vendors before growing to include group runs and other fitness activities.

“The Final Rise” will feature music from KG559, DJ Kay Rich, and DJ Alex, along with special guests who have not yet been announced.

Run Clubs Take Over the Morning

The day will begin at 8 a.m. with a community run led by Fresno Run Club and joined by clubs from across the central San Joaquin Valley.

Organizers have announced Fresno Beer Runners, Forge Endurance, Running With Baddies & Daddies, SoleTrainRC, Chowchilla Run Club, Solestice Runners Fresno, and 559’s Movement Social Club as participants. Nebeker said additional groups have since reached out, bringing the expected total to about 10 run clubs.

Nebeker estimates roughly 150 to 200 people will participate in the run.

Participants and Grand Rising attendees will also have access to giveaways and products from community partners, including Bee Sweet Citrus, Dude Wipes, Saint James, and Laird Superfoods.

For people looking for a slower start to the morning, Grand Rising will also offer a free yoga session at Azara beginning at 9 a.m. with Sammi the Yogi.

The session is limited to 40 spots and requires advance registration by messaging Grand Rising on Instagram with the word “YOGA.” Participants will also receive a Saint James Organic Brewed Tea.

Wellness Vendors, Kids Area, and Plenty of Freebies

Inside Grand Rising, the event will continue its emphasis on keeping many activities included with admission.

Massage will return, along with a kids area featuring face painting, balloons, and coloring in a shaded section with lower music volume. Nebeker said the area remains connected to the main party so parents can still experience the event while giving children a quieter space.

House of Matcha will make its Grand Rising debut serving coffee and matcha, while Vitamin Drip will offer B12 injections and other wellness services.

Wellness brand Smile will give away sunglasses, while a henna vendor will offer free henna tattoos.

Nebeker said most activities inside the event will be free, with attendees paying separately if they want coffee, matcha, mocktails, or food. The event will also feature giveaways, surprise costumed characters, and an unannounced musical guest.

Grand Rising Prepares for Its Last Party

Grand Rising has grown since its first event in August 2025, when the alcohol-free day party drew more than 200 people to downtown Fresno. Its second event expanded to about 300 tickets, while later gatherings added group runs, bike rides, mocktails, and more wellness programming.

For “The Final Rise,” more than 400 people are expected.

For the final event, he said he is most thankful for the community that has supported the concept.

“It’s been really special to be a part of it, and I’m happy to finish it on a high note while we haven’t lost luster,” Nebeker said. “It’s been really special and moving to be part of this. I’m extra thankful to people that have allowed me to do this.”

Tier 2 tickets are currently $15.99 for adults and $10 for children. VIP tickets are $35 and include access to a private seating area and a first drink free.

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