5K races near Muskegon Heights

Oktoberfest Runs at Stony Creek is a fall race day held at Stony Creek Metropark in Shelby Township, Michigan, offering 30K, half marathon, 10K, and 5K distances. The 30K, which is 18.6 miles, serves as a final tune-up for runners preparing for fall marathons. The shorter distances provide an accessible option for casual runners and first-time participants within the same event. The courses follow park trails through wooded sections and alongside the lakeshore, with autumn foliage enhancing the scenery. This event has been held for over a decade, and its variety of distances attracts marathoners, club runners, recreational runners, and individuals participating in their first race.

The GVSU Turkey Trot is a late-fall 5K walk/run held on campus. The course begins and ends at the clock tower, adjacent to packet pickup. Now in its 13th year, the race begins at 9:00 AM EST and is designed for both walkers and runners, not exclusively fast club racers. Entry for the 5K Walk/Run costs $20 prior to the price increase. The field has recently seen over 100 participants, with age groups ranging from 13 and under to 70+. Medals are distributed across these numerous divisions. Organizers have refined the course and introduced clearer social media updates via Instagram at @gvsu.turkeytrot and Facebook. Participant feedback is welcomed, contributing to the event's intimate atmosphere that accommodates regular runners, students, families, and first-time participants.

The Turkey Trails- Grand Rapids is a Thanksgiving-themed running event held annually in Grand Rapids. It offers a 5K, 10K, half marathon, 1 mile, Kids Dash, and a virtual race option. The event is designed for both families and regular runners, featuring youth pricing for ages 12 and under in the 5K and 10K, and a short untimed dash for children 10 and under. The in-person races provide chip timing, live results, and awards. The virtual option allows participants to run at their own location and still receive event merchandise. Most registrations include a custom bib, a designer shirt, and a finisher medal, with children receiving a mini bib, youth-sized shirt, and medal. Complimentary participant photos and finish-line refreshments enhance the holiday outing atmosphere.

The Holland Turkey Trot 5K is a Thanksgiving morning run in Holland, Michigan, starting at 8 a.m. on Eighth Street. Its first edition sold out at 1,000 runners, and local approval added 300 more spots after demand kept coming. The course loops around Windmill Island and passes some of Holland’s familiar landmarks. The race is tied to the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Holland, with organizers expecting it to raise $10,000 and the club providing 17 volunteers; family, friends, and neighbors are invited to come out and cheer.

The Tamarac Turkey Trot is a Thanksgiving morning 5K race beginning at Tamarac City Hall in Tamarac, Florida. This city-sponsored event has a history spanning over forty years and attracts a wide range of local participants, not exclusively competitive athletes. Runners, walkers, wheelchair users, families, novices, and age-group competitors are welcome, with recent participation numbering around 2,500 individuals. The route follows a straightforward 5K from the City Hall starting point, with the event focused on both completion and community involvement. Participants wearing a bib receive a medal, the initial 2,000 registered individuals obtain a commemorative shirt, and awards are presented to the top three male and female finishers overall, as well as age-group victors. The morning program also features live music, fitness-related vendors, and door prizes, functioning as a holiday gathering alongside the race.

The Holland Leprechaun Chase 5k begins at Centennial Park in Holland, Michigan. It includes a Wee Chase for children ages 4 to 8. The main event is a 5 km road race presented by Haworth Helps, designed for runners, joggers, walkers, friends, and families. The course departs Centennial Park, proceeding through downtown Holland and waterfront areas on roads closed to traffic. The Holland Running Club established the race; Lakeside Property Masters now organizes it, with Mayor Nathan Bocks and Kevin J. Maas serving as local hosts. National Heritage presents the Wee Chase, offering younger children a shorter race option.

Run on the cross country course at CCS. The race is chip timed by MiTime Race Management LLC. Register by April 12 for a free T-shirt. Awards for overall, masters, and age group winners.