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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.

Harbor Run 5k/10k Run

May 18th, 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 runludington.com.

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

June 7th-8th, 2024

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, 2024 (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 $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. 

Ludington Lighthouse Triathlon

August 11th, 2024

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 26th, 2024

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. 

For more information, visit runludington.com

Pumpkin Pie Promenade Fun Run

November 2024

This informal race was created in 2021. Runners should 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 1st, 2025 (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 runludington.com.

Irish Jog 5k/10k

March 2025

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 or for more information.

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

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More Activities & Attractions in Ludington

Activities & Attractions

There are so many things to see and do in Ludington! Don’t miss a single activity during your visit by exploring VisitLudington.com!

The Baby Badger

A children’s flotilla that’s a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. Children get to ride in one of many “cars”.

Mason County District Libraries

In addition to thousands of book titles, the Mason County District Library’s Ludington and Scottville branches provide many free programs.

Power

The Ludington Pumped Storage Plant and Lakewinds Energy Park are the two main sources of energy that power Ludington! Check them out!

Disc Golf Courses

Disc golf is a big deal here in the Ludington area, with up to 20,000 people per year visiting one of our six courses.

Ludington North Breakwater Light

Ludington’s North Breakwater Light is the number one lighthouse to see in Michigan! Take a trip along the breakwater path to see it up close!

Fishing on Hamlin Lake

Fishing on Hamlin Lake

If there’s one thing that Hamlin Lake is known for, it’s excellent fishing. Catch crappie, bluegill, and more across thousands of acres.

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.

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.