
Run the Pier Running Festival
Run the Pier Running Festival offers a scenic half-marathon along Manistee's lakeshore and historic pier.
Race Date
Jul 25, 2026
Location
Manistee, MI
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, July 25, 2026
- Location
- Manistee, Michigan
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5K, 10K, 26.2 Miles
- Course
- Out & Back
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 254
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Set against the backdrop of Northern Michigan's stunning lakeshore, the Run the Pier Running Festival invites participants to experience the beauty of Manistee. Runners will embark on a unique journey, heading out onto the historic North Pier to circle the iconic lighthouse before returning along the picturesque shoreline.
This event, now in its second edition, typically sees around 127 finishers, drawing participants from about 13 states. The half-marathon course, along with the 10K and marathon, winds along scenic Lakeshore Drive, offering sweeping views of Lake Michigan and a refreshing lakeside atmosphere. While the course is largely flat with minimal elevation change, the focus is on the breathtaking scenery and the invigorating fresh air.
With a typical race-day temperature of 65-77°F, the festival provides a welcoming environment for those chasing personal bests or simply soaking in the views. Post-race, participants can enjoy food trucks on-site, celebrating their finish with the lake as a constant companion.
Race-provided description
Run the Pier Running Festival is a premier annual race experience set along the beautiful Manistee lakeshore, showcasing some of the most iconic scenery Northern Michigan has to offer. Participants will run out onto Manistee’s historic North Pier, circling the legendary lighthouse before heading back along the shoreline in one of four race options: 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, or Full Marathon. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply taking in the views, this is a course you won’t forget. This year’s festival features 600 total finisher awards—so run strong and earn yours. Every registered athlete will receive an Official Run the Pier Running Festival T-shirt, along with additional swag items (to be announced). The Full Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10K courses wind along scenic Lakeshore Drive, delivering sweeping Lake Michigan views, fresh air, and a true Northern Michigan running experience. All routes will be published on our website and shared through participant newsletters once finalized—thank you for your patience as we finalize details. Run the Pier continues to grow each year, welcoming 600+ athletes from out of town, bringing energy and excitement to Manistee each summer. 📅 Saturday, July 25th 🍳 Food trucks on-site with breakfast and lunch options for athletes, families, and spectators. Run the pier. Circle the lighthouse. Finish with the lake at your side.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, July 25, 2026
Start Time
8:00 AM
Giveaway
Official Running Fest T-shirt
Start Location
250 Duffy Park, Manistee, MI, 49660
Course Info
Course Type
Out & Back
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River, Coastal
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
Solid Pick442 years running
~127 finishers a year
growing or steady
14% returning runners
5 timing sources
runners from 13 states
winner 1:30:22
typical high 77°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
65°
Afternoon (High)
77°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.1"
Precipitation
12 mph
Wind
78%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 254 finishers actually crossed the line across 2 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
254
Median time
2:07:23
Latest turnout
127
States
16
Turnout by year
2024–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Frequently asked
When is the Run the Pier Running Festival?
The Run the Pier Running Festival is held on Saturday, July 25, 2026, starting at 8:00 AM.
Where does the Run the Pier Running Festival take place?
It takes place in Manistee, Michigan.
What distances does the Run the Pier Running Festival offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5K, 10K, 26.2 Miles.
Is the Run the Pier Running Festival course flat and good for a PR?
The Run the Pier Running Festival is a ultra-flat, out & back course.
How many people run the Run the Pier Running Festival?
HalfRuns has finish records for 254 runners who have completed the Run the Pier Running Festival.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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