Photo by Miguel A. Amutio on Unsplash.com

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.

Runners take on the Ludington Lakestride. | Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography.

#RunLudington Sesquicentennial 150-Mile Challenge

Virtual from Monday, April 10th-Sunday, December 31st, 2023

Registration includes a custom finisher medal mailed to you. Add a short sleeve ($15) or long sleeve ($25) performance tee to celebrate your miles and Ludington’s Sesquicentennial. Challenge: log 150 miles (walking or running) by the end of the year. For more of a challenge, log your 150 miles in 150 days. Cost is $25 per person.

To register, visit runreg.com

Ludington Lakestride 5k, 10k, and Half Marathon

June 10th, 2023

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.

Freedom Festival 1-Mile Dash

July 4th, 2023

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 $30 and late entry online and on race day is $35. Entry includes a t-shirt and a finisher’s medal. Shirts only guaranteed with registration by June 24th, 2023.  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. 

To register, visit eventbrite.com.

Ludington Lighthouse Triathlon

August 13th, 2023

The annual Ludington Lighthouse Triathlon happens each August in downtown Ludington, where the Avenue ends right at the beach. The event begins at 7:30am and includes biking, kayaking, and running and participants can choose from 6 different race combinations.

For more information, visit 3disciplines.com.

Run for Your Lives 5k/10K Run

October 28th, 2023

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 webscorer.com. *Race day registration is credit card only and runners must use the contactless checkout system.

Pumpkin Pie Promenade Fun Run

November, 2023

Due to the cancellation of the annual Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital Turkey Trot, this informal race was created in 2021. Meet in the parking lot at Rath Ave. & Bryant Rd. at 8am, and take off to make 3 laps around the Cartier Park Loop for a 5k. Feel free to dress up, bring pets and kids, and walk or run Thanksgiving morning. This is just a fun run, so no medals or ribbons will be awarded.

New Year's Resolution 5k Run

January 1, 2024 (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.

For updated information and to register, visit downtownludington.org/runludington.

Irish Jog 5k/10k

March, 2024

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 downtownludington.org for more information.

Harbor Run 5k/10k Run

May, 2024

Part of the #RunLudington series, this 5k/10k will celebrate National Maritime Day and the start of the S.S. Badger Carferry’s sailing season. The race starts near Waterfront Park at 9am on the corner of James St. & Court St. The course is a 1.55 mile loop, so 5k runners will run two laps and 10k runners will run 4 laps. Packet pickup will be from 7:30-8:45am on race day. Race registration is $30 and includes a 3.5″ custom die-cast finishers medal and a tri-blend race tee. There is also a virtual option available.

For more information, visit downtownludington.org.

Spectrum Health Lakestride Family Fun Run/Walk

May, 2024

Free 1 mile run/walk for all ages sponsored by Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital. Begins at 6pm. Finisher photo & press announcement to the top 2 finishers boy & girl. Water & Frozen yogurts at the finish. No registration required.

Stay tuned for information on races in 2023 and check out more races happening throughout West Michigan!

Current Events in Ludington

Performances

Summer Music

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.

Read More »

Races

Ludington is a popular location for various races and runs… including the Lakestride Half Marathon and the Lighthouse Triathlon.

Read More »

Advertisement – Please scroll below for more information.

More Activities & Attractions in Ludington

Fall Color Tour

Enjoy an afternoon drive around the Ludington area in October and fill your senses with the vibrant colors of fall.

Beaches & Parks

Ludington has many beautiful beaches and parks to explore. Enjoy a day on the shores of Lake Michigan or take in the scenery at a local park.

Ludington Art Scene

Ludington is alive with an array of artistic events that take place throughout the year. There’s music, photography, art galleries, and more.

Ludington Skate Plaza

The Ludington Skate Plaza is a popular spot for kids with skateboards or in-line skates, and also draws spectators to Stearns Park.

Ludington’s Great Outdoors

Ludington has miles of beautiful beaches, the Ludington State Park, and all the activities that take place in Mother Nature’s playground.

Cool Things to Do

Check out our picks for the top 50 coolest things to do in Ludington, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Michigan.

Pet Friendly Places

Your pet should feel right at home in Ludington. There are many businesses that allow pets and parks and beaches for them to play on.

Weather & Water Conditions

West Michigan weather – they say if you don’t like the weather in Ludington, wait a few minutes and it will change.