No tips, but it sounds like fun! I've done a few off road runs and used my road shoes which were mostly ok, except for when it was wet then it was simply dangerous and quite scary.

I would suggest running at least part of the course a few times beforehand. The difference in terrain and footing take some getting used to.

^^This

Knowing the course ahead of time has always helped me a lot for a trail race. If the trail is not very technical you will be fine with normal running shoes. But be prepared to get them a bit dirty. Have fun and keep your eyes on the trail ahead of you at all times.

There's definitely a learning curve with trail running, especially if the trail is technical. Running parts of the course even a few times will make the race experience more pleasant. Last year I ran a race on the Appalachian trail, on a particularly rocky section. I did four training runs on it, and each time it was easier. On race day I was passing people who were picking their way through the rocks and who clearly were good runners, but unfamiliar with the terrain.

As for shoes, there's no need to get "trail" shoes. I wear hokas, and have a trail and road version. I don't run roads; I just like the ride of the road shoes later in a race. I would wear them exclusively except for the fact that they have almost no tread at all, which is dicey in mud. Most road shoes (the Asics I used to wear) are fine. David Horton, one of the most accomplished trail runners ever, wrote this: http://www.extremeultrarunning.com/1stultra.htm. Scroll down to equipment. He wears a nike air pegasus. Hell, read the whole thing; it might inspire you. Have fun at the race!

Like has been said, you probably don't need new shoes. Looking at the pdf, you have some decent elevation gain for a half so make sure you get some hill/speed work in. Also, make sure you run some trails similar to what you are about to run; trails can take a toll on muscle groups that arent worked as much on the road.

Biggest thing, have fun, enjoy the people and the scenery, and remember it's ok to walk...and fall

First trail race and it's a half marathon? Bless your heart

Mine was a 30k...

I'd usually ask someone who's run the same race before (or who lives in the area) what shoes are most suitable for the course and weather conditions, but my preference would be for lightweight road shoes if there was likely to be any significant stretches of road or hard trail.