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

Race Overview

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.

Post-Race Celebration

• Finish Line: Participants celebrate at the Entertainment Pavilion Beer Tent.
• Celebration Perks: Medals, light refreshments, free race photos, and a sponsor-branded keepsake photo.
• Age Requirement: Adults 21+ can toast their accomplishment with a complimentary beer.
• Entertainment: Everyone is welcome to enjoy live music and festive vibes in the Beer Garden.

Race Timing and Awards

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 standout performances across multiple age groups.
• Award Categories: Awards given to the top three finishers in each category: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place Male and Female runners.
• Competitive Spirit: Push your pace, race your best, and take home some well-earned bragging rights!

Participant Perks

Every in-person participant receives:

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

Economy Option

Economy Option (No Shirt):

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

Virtual Option

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.

Charitable Cause

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:

• Venue: 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
• Time: 6:30am - 8:00am

Register for the Race

To participate, please visit the following link: Moovin' Thru the Midway 5K Registration.