Moovin' Thru the Midway 5K at the Michigan State Fair

The Moovin’ Thru the Midway 5K Presented by Wells Fargo made its debut at the Michigan State Fair in 2019 and has been a fan favorite ever since! This one-of-a-kind race welcomes participants of all ages and abilities to experience an immersive and energetic course through the heart of the fairgrounds. Runners dash past highlights like the Carnival Midway, the animals and even inside vendor exhibits—bringing the full fair experience to life.

The race finishes in true fair style at the Entertainment Pavilion Beer Tent, where participants celebrate with medals, light refreshments, free race photos, and a sponsor-branded keepsake photo. Adults 21+ can toast their accomplishment with a complimentary beer, while everyone is welcome to enjoy the live music and festive vibes at the post-race celebration in the Beer Garden.

Officially Chip Timed & Age Group Prizes!
Our 5K is professionally chip timed, so every runner gets accurate, real-time results no guessing, no stopwatch needed. Whether you're chasing a personal record or just out to have fun, your time will be tracked with precision.

🏅Age Group Awards
We’re celebrating top finishers in multiple age categories, so everyone has a chance to shine! Prizes will be awarded to the top runners in each group. Come race your best and take home some well-earned bragging rights.

Every in-person participant receives:

• (1) Complimentary Ultimate Admission Ticket to the Michigan State Fair (Redeemable Saturday, Sunday or Monday Only -- $42 value that includes fair entry, unlimited rides)
• Unique Moovin’ Thru the Midway 5K Dri-Fit T-shirt
• Finisher Medal
• Race Photo
• Pint of Guernsey Farms Dairy Chocolate Milk
• Sweetwater's Coffee to kickstart the fun
• (1) Free Beer from the Beer Tent (21+) 

Economy Option 

• (1) Complimentary Ultimate Admission Ticket to the Michigan State Fair (Redeemable Saturday, Sunday or Monday Only -- $42 value that includes fair entry, unlimited rides)
• Finisher Medal
• Race Photo
• Pint of Guernsey Farms Dairy Chocolate Milk
• Sweetwater's Coffee to kickstart the fun
• (1) Free Beer from the Beer Tent (21+) 

In 2020, the race expanded to include a virtual option, allowing participants to run or walk from home or a location of their choice. Virtual runners receive a mailed Race Kit with their official swag and can submit a photo to receive a branded keepsake image to share on social media. Plus, all virtual participants can upload their race photos directly to the results page.

Proceeds from the Moovin’ Thru the Midway 5K benefit our nonprofit partner, Military Families United—supporting those who serve and their loved ones.

Packet Pick-Up

Location:

• Michigan State Fair at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace, formerly Suburban Collection Showplace (46100 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48374)

Dates/Times:

• Race Day Morning (September 5th, 2026)
• 6:30am - 8:00am

🏁 Awards Ceremony – For Runners Only 🏁

Stick around after the race for the awards ceremony!
Please note: trophies and medals are for runners only and will not be mailed. Awards can be picked up immediately after the race at the Suburban Collection Showplace (46100 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48374 | Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm).

🏆 Overall Awards

Top 3 Overall Male Runners
Top 3 Overall Female Runners
🎖️ Age Group Awards (Male & Female Runners)

10 & under
11–14
15–18
19–24
25–29
30–34
35–39
40–44
45–49
50–54
55–59
60–64
65–69
70 & Over

Can you run with a stroller?

Yes! We welcome parents with jogging strollers. Your child must remain securely fastened inside the stroller while on the course for safety and insurance reasons.

Can you run with a dog?

We love dogs! But for everyone’s safety, dogs are not allowed in the race unless they are trained service animals.

What happens if I don’t attend the race?

If you are unable to attend, the fair cannot guarantee that your shirt size or medal will still be available. To accommodate late entries in our economy registration group, unclaimed shirts and medals may be offered for purchase after the race. You are welcome to reach out following the event to check availability, but it is not guaranteed.

Is there a gear check?

No. We recommend leaving items you don’t wish to carry in your vehicle.

What time should I arrive on race day?

Please arrive 30–45 minutes before the race start to allow time for parking, bib pickup, stretching, and getting to the start line.

Where and when do I pick up my race packet?

Packet pickup will be available the morning of the race 6:30am-8:00am. Please bring a photo ID or your registration confirmation.

Can someone else pick up my packet?

Yes, but they must have a copy of your registration confirmation or written permission.

Will there be water on the course?

Yes! A water station will be located near the halfway point, with additional water available at the finish line.

Are headphones allowed?

Yes, but please keep the volume low enough to hear instructions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Is the race timed?

Yes, the event will be chip-timed. Results will be posted online after the race.

Can I walk the race?

Absolutely! Walkers are welcome. For safety, please line up toward the back of the start area.

Are there age restrictions?

The 5K is open to all ages. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent/guardian. 

What happens if it rains?

The race will take place rain or shine. In the event of severe weather, the fair reserves the right to delay or cancel for safety.

Are there refunds or transfers?

Race registrations are non-refundable and non-transferable, regardless of weather, injury, or personal conflict.

Are there awards?

Yes! Awards will be given to the top overall male and female finishers, as well as top finishers by age group. 

Medical Support

Basic medical assistance will be available near the finish line. If you need help on the course, notify a volunteer or fellow runner immediately.

 
Race Day Policies

Weapons Policy
No weapons of any kind are allowed on the fairgrounds (guns, knives—including pocket knives—tasers, etc.), even with a CPL.

Parking Info

Free parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
No parking in fire lanes or non-designated areas. Violators may be towed.

Prohibited Items

Outside alcohol
Pets (except service animals)
Large signs or props
Loud noisemakers (horns, bullhorns, megaphones)
Drones or remote-controlled devices
Face coverings that obscure identity

Permitted Items

Jogging strollers (child must be safely fastened)
Cameras & selfie sticks
Medical or infant-related necessities (subject to inspection)
Re-entry Policy
If you plan to enjoy the fair after your run and leave temporarily, keep your bib to receive your wristband or keep your wristband on to re-enter later that day.

Smoking Policy

The entire fairground is smoke-free, including outdoor and indoor areas.

2026 MEDAL DESIGN COMING SOON!

Location:

Michigan State Fair at the Suburban Showplace (46100 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI 48374)

Dates/Times:

Race Day Morning (September 5th, 2026)
6:30am - 8:00am

2026 SHIRT DESIGN COMING SOON!