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Fun Runs, 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, & Marathon Events in Ludington

Ludington is an ideal location for runs and races. Right along the shores of Lake Michigan, Ludington features many beautiful roads beside the lake, through downtown Ludington, and on the way out to the State Park along the sand dunes. There are races in Ludington’s surrounding areas, as well, featuring more lakefront views and rural settings. Below, you will find dates and information for more annual fun runs and races in Ludington.

Run for Your Lives 5k/10K Run

October 31st, 2026

This annual 5k/10k Run begins at 9am at Legacy Plaza– Corner of Court St. and James St. in downtown Ludington. Participants are encouraged to dress in costume. Packet pickup and late registration is from 7:30-8:45am on race day.

To register, visit runludington.com.

2027

New Year's Resolution 5k Run

January 1st, 2027 (Tentative)

Presented by Downtown Ludington, this race begins at 11am and runs from Loomis Street to James Street in downtown Ludington. Registration typically includes a custom medal, and a tri-blend race tee. Packet pickup and late registration is from 10-10:45am on race day.

Irish Jog 5k/10k

March 2027

This RunLudington event begins at 9am and includes a 5k and 10k beginning and ending at Legacy Plaza in downtown Ludington. Registration is $30 in advance or $35 on race day and finishers will receive a custom medal.

Visit runludington.com to register.

Pere Marquette XC 5k

May 2027

Part of the #RunLudington series, this event is an off-road/cross country style event. Dogs are welcome and more about the event will be announced soon.

To register, visit runludington.com.

Ludington Lakestride 5k, 10k, and Half Marathon & Family Fun Run

June 2027

Since 1980, Ludington has been the host for the well known Ludington Lakestride 5K, 10K & Half Marathon. The weekend begins with a one-mile fun run on Friday evening at 6pm. Saturday’s Lakestride is actually three races: the 5K run which winds its way through Cartier Park, the 10K which runs out to Decker Road and back, and the Half-Marathon.

Register at runsignup.com.

Freedom Festival 1-Mile Dash

July 4th, 2027 (Tentative)

This is a 1-Mile Fun Run where runners are invited to run the Freedom Festival Grand Parade route prior to the parade step off to help raise money for the evenings fireworks. The annual fireworks display is funded 100% by donations.

Early entry fee is $40 and late entry online and on race day is $45. Entry includes a t-shirt and a finisher’s medal. Shirts only guaranteed with registration by June 26th, 2026. Remaining shirts will be available first come/first serve at packet pickup/registration on race day. Packet pickup and race day registration will take place at Leveaux Park from 12:30-1:30pm on race day.

Register at eventbrite.com.

Stay tuned for information on upcoming races and check out more races happening throughout West Michigan!

Current Events in the Ludington Area

The Western Michigan Fair Continues Through Saturday

Smaller towns set themselves apart from big cities by local events. That’s very evident when Ludington hosts the Western Michigan Fair.

Get Tickets Now for the Suds on the Shore Beer & Wine Tasting Festival

The Suds on the Shore Craft Beer & Wine Festival is held each August at Ludington’s Rotary Park to benefit the United Way of Michigan.

S.S. Badger Carferry Shoreline Cruises

Enjoy a variety of shoreline cruises with various themes on the S.S. Badger Carferry in both Ludington and Manitowoc.

The Heaven on Hamlin Todd & Brad Reed Photography Workshop is Coming Up

Todd and Brad Reed offer Photography Workshops throughout the year. These classes are great for beginners as well as seasoned professionals.

Catch Another Downtown Ludington Movie in the Park This Thursday

August in Ludington means free movies, on three Thursday nights at dusk in Ludington’s Rotary Park (formerly City Park).

The Ludington Auto Club Hosts Another Cars & Coffee Car Show on the 19th

Ludington is the location for many Car Shows during the summer. Various awards and plaques are presented at these car shows.

Arts & Crafts Classes in Ludington

Ludington has many businesses to help you enjoy crafting and appreciate the finished product. Let them help you create your own masterpiece!

Family Friendly Events

Ludington hosts many events and activities that are geared toward kids and families, that’s part of what makes the area so great!

Michigan’s Free ORV Weekend is Coming Soon

The State of Michigan offers its residents and outstate visitors “free” weekends to fish, ORV, or snowmobile each year.

Horse Shows

The Caswell Horse Park at the Mason County Fairgrounds in Ludington is a busy place from May-October, with many horse shows.

Summer Music in West Michigan

After a busy day at the beach or at work, it’s time to kick back and relax a while. What better way than to listen to some music.

Performances in West Michigan

Everyone enjoys a good play or concert, and Ludington blessed with talented actors and musicians that entertain us all year ’round.

Ludington Area Events Happening Soon

Sunset Beach Bonfires at Stearns Park

Enjoy the warmth of a bonfire on the beach! The Ludington Fire Department mans the fire while you enjoy the sunset.

Festivals & Events

There are activities going on in the Ludington area to keep everyone happy all year long. Longstanding events make Ludington special.