Band on the Run 5K 2026

The Band on the Run 5K is a 5K race held on the Linden Community Schools campus in Linden, Michigan, featuring the Linden High School Marching Band. The course starts and finishes on the 50-yard line of Claude Cranston Stadium. The primary event is the 5K run, and while walkers are welcome, there is no distinct walking category. A half-mile children's run for those 12 and under begins 30 minutes prior to the 5K, and a virtual 5K option is also available. The marching band participates along the course, performing and encouraging participants. The event supports the band program financially. All finishers get medals, and the top three finishers in each age group receive awards. The overall male and female winners are awarded gift cards from Running Lab Brighton. Special considerations are made for high school athletes subject to MHSAA regulations. The race incorporates its music theme through a Rock Star Challenge for participants in costume and a timed band competition. In this competition, teams of four to six runners register as a "band," with the times of the fastest four members contributing to a special prize.