Entry fees for the Save the Manatee 5K range from free to $40, making it an accessible option for runners of all budgets. The race takes place on November 15, 2026, in Orange City, Florida, at 2100 W. French Ave, with a typical start time of 8:00 AM. The event features a 1-mile distance, suitable for those looking for a shorter running experience. If you can't make it to the in-person event, a virtual participation option is available, allowing you to complete your mile on your own schedule. This race combines a manageable distance with flexible participation options.
From the Race Organizer
Help save the manatee! Join participants from around the world helping manatees by participating in the 23rd Annual Save the Manatee 5K! The in-person Save the Manatee 5K will be held on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at 8 a.m. ET at Blue Spring State Park in Orange City, FL. November 15 is the official kick-off day of Manatee Season in Florida, so what better way to welcome the manatees back to Blue Spring! The race will start and finish at Blue Spring State Park, winter home of the manatee, and will go along the scenic, flat Spring-to-Spring Trail adjacent to the park. Race registration includes park admission fee. Runners and walkers of all paces and ages are welcome, and there will be awards for the top 3 male and female finishers. This is a family- and dog-friendly event. Proceeds go to Save the Manatee Club. After the race you may even see some manatees in the spring run. You can also participate virtually from anywhere in the world on the date and time you choose. You pick your activity and distance; run, walk, bike, swim, kayak, scuba, or hike your favorite course at your convenience. Registration includes: Manatee Unisex Cotton/Polyester Blend T-shirt, an amazing Manatee Finisher Medal, and Race Bib. PACKET PICK-UP Early packet pick-up will take place at Front Running Sports in Lake Mary the week prior to the event. Packet pick-up will also be available on race day starting at 6:30 a.m. at Blue Spring State Park. EVENT SCHEDULE RACE DAY NOVEMBER 15, 2026 6:30 a.m. – Packet Pickup and Registration Opens 8:00 a.m. – Race Starts FINISHER MEDAL Custom Finisher Medals will be provided. KIDS 12 and under could get a free stuffed manatee at the race (in-person only) AWARDS Top 3 overall male and female will receive awards. There will also be medal tags for top 3 male and female in each age group. PARKING Parking will be inside Blue Spring State Park. Park admission is included in the registration fee. PROCEEDS Proceeds support Save the Manatee Club. TIMING & SCORING Race will be timed and scored with a disposable chip provided, which will be attached to the back of the bib
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Orange City, FL. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for November 15.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Orange City, FL.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
When is Save the Manatee 5K 2026 — Orange City, FL?
Save the Manatee 5K 2026 — Orange City, FL takes place on November 15, 2026. The race is held in Orange City, Florida.
Where is Save the Manatee 5K 2026 — Orange City, FL held?
Save the Manatee 5K 2026 — Orange City, FL is held at 2100 W. French Ave in Orange City, Florida.
Where can I find hotels near Save the Manatee 5K 2026 — Orange City, FL?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Orange City. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
