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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.

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

2025

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

June 21st, 2025

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, 2025

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 $35 and late entry online and on race day is $40. Entry includes a t-shirt and a finisher’s medal. Shirts only guaranteed with registration by June 24th, 2024.  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. 

Run for Your Lives 5k/10K Run

October 25th, 2025

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.

2026

New Year's Resolution 5k Run

January 1st, 2026 (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 2026

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 webscorer.com to register.

Pere Marquette XC 5k

May 2026

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 webscorer.com.

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

What's going on now in Ludington?

Discover more to do 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.

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Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
 

Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!

Hamlin Lake Dam

Read about the mighty dam that lives in Hamlin Lake, how it came to be and how it is utilized to help protect this man-made lake.

Fishing

There are many places for anglers to try their luck, and Ludington has such a great variety of fish. The area also has great charter captains.

Maritime Heritage Trail

The Maritime Heritage Trail highlights the lighthouses, industries, art, and figures that make up the maritime history of Mason County!

Mason County Cultural Trails

Mason County is home to several trails that tell stories with fascinating histories. Explore these self-guided tours to learn about each one!

South Bayou Park

Enjoy this small, relaxing park as an easy place to place your boat in the water or throw a line out to catch some pan fish for dinner.