2026 Montrose Blueberry Festival 5k & 8k Road Races

Lace up for a vibrant celebration of running and community at the 2026 Montrose Blueberry Festival 5k & 8k Road Races, taking place on Sunday, August 16th, in charming Montrose, Michigan. This milestone event marks the 50th anniversary of the race, making it a particularly special occasion within the larger 55th Annual Blueberry Festival. Offering both an 8K and 5K distance, runners and walkers of all abilities can experience a fast and flat road course, winding through the city of Montrose and into its picturesque rural township.

The race officially kicks off with onsite registration at 7 a.m. at the athletic complex on Nanita Drive, where both the start and finish lines are located within the confines of the Bob Hayes Athletic Field. The 8K runners will set off at 8 a.m., followed shortly by the 5K participants at 8:15 a.m. Participants can look forward to receiving a limited-edition race t-shirt and a finisher's medal to commemorate their accomplishment. Typical race day conditions in mid-August feature pleasant highs around 80F and lows around 59F, with a low 13% chance of precipitation, creating ideal running weather.

What truly sets this event apart is its integration with the renowned Montrose Blueberry Festival. After crossing the finish line, runners are invited to indulge in a delicious Blueberry Pancake Breakfast and then explore the lively Entertainment Tent and Marketplace, brimming with flea market finds and craft show treasures. This premier sports event attracts visitors and runners, offering a fantastic blend of athletic challenge and festive, family-friendly fun.