Crystal Beach 5k 2026

The Crystal Beach 5K begins and ends at 4020 Erie Road in Crystal Beach, close to the Lake Erie shore. The primary event is a 5K run/walk. A 1K Kids Run takes place earlier, allowing families and faster runners to participate on the same day. The 5K starts at 11:00 AM, and the kids race begins at 10:15 AM. The event attracts hundreds of participants, with previous years seeing over 600 runners and walkers combined. The 5K route is a quick, level out-and-back course along Erie Road and adjacent streets, featuring bib-chip timing with results available post-race. Organized by the Crystal Beach 5K team, the event embraces the village atmosphere instead of a basic road race format. Participants receive custom bibs and medals, finishing to music, food, complimentary beer, and a post-race gathering in The Grove. The leading runners demonstrate significant speed, with course records standing at 15:38 for men, 17:59 for women, and 34:50 for walkers.