Watermelon Run 2026 — Lawrence, MI

Date
September 5, 2026
Location
Lawrence, MI
Venue
490 S. Paw Paw St.
Start Time
8:30 AM
Entry Fee
$25.00 – $30.00
Events
5K, 10K, 15K
Includes
T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration OpenOfficial Race Website

The Watermelon Run starts at 8:30 AM, giving you time to arrive in Lawrence, Michigan the night before without an early wake-up. The event takes place at 490 S. Paw Paw St. and offers three distances: 1 mile, 6.2 miles, and 9.3 miles, so whether you're looking for a shorter effort or a longer effort, there's an option. Entry fees range from $25 to $30. Held on September 5, 2026, this running event is a straightforward option for endurance athletes passing through the area or making it a weekend destination.

From the Race Organizer
NEW THIS YEAR - USATF Certified Courses The Watermelon Run is an event at the Lawrence Ox Roast, on Labor Day weekend. We offer 5, 10, and 15K road courses with medals awarded to the top 3 per age group, for both genders, in each event. Trophies are awarded to the finalists in each race for both genders. Sign in and Bib pick up will start the morning of the race at 7AM at the Van Buren Conference Center. Van Buren Conference Center 490 S Paw Paw St, Lawrence, MI 49064 Giveaway T-Shirts are only available for the registrants who registered during the giveaway period. I apologize for any inconvenience. T-shirt giveaway period will end on July 5th at 11:59PM EST After Race We will be serving fresh watermelon and registration includes pancake and sausage breakfast at the Lawrence Fire Dept. Only one ticket per registration is included for breakfast, but all are welcome to join. The cost of additional breakfast tickets is by donation. Fire Department Address: 205 N Paw Paw St Lawrence MI 49064 USATF Course Information: 5K Course 10K Course 15K Course

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Lawrence, MI. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Watermelon Run 2026 — Lawrence, MI

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for September 5.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Lawrence, MI. 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
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Watermelon Run 2026 — Lawrence, MI?

Watermelon Run 2026 — Lawrence, MI takes place on September 5, 2026. The race is held in Lawrence, Michigan.

Where is Watermelon Run 2026 — Lawrence, MI held?

Watermelon Run 2026 — Lawrence, MI is held at 490 S. Paw Paw St. in Lawrence, Michigan.

Where can I find hotels near Watermelon Run 2026 — Lawrence, MI?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Lawrence. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.