Ottawa Avenue and Lyon Street (Start Line), Grand Rapids MI
Wednesday, May 6th, 2026
Event Overview
The Amway River Bank Run, presented by Fifth Third Bank with Corewell Health as the Official Health Partner, is held every year in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan on the second Saturday of May.
Event Date and Highlights
- Date: May 9, 2026
- Celebration: 49 years of the event
- Largest Road Race: Includes the USA 25 km Open Championships, 25K Handcycle, 25K Wheelchair, 10K Run, 5K Run, and 5K Community Walk
Virtual Participation
In addition to our in-person events, we offer virtual events that give individuals an opportunity to participate by completing the distance of their choice (25K, 10K, 5K, or 5K walk) on the course of their choice and any day that works between May 1 and May 31.
- Extended Finishing Times: Unlike the in-person course cutoffs
- Flexibility: A great option for many runners and walkers
- Race Swag: High-quality race shirts, premium medals, and a virtual race bib
History of the Race
In 1978, just over 1,000 runners took to the streets on the second Saturday of May for the first annual Old Kent River Bank Run. In 2001, Old Kent Bank merged with Fifth Third Bank, and the event was renamed to showcase its new owner.
- Transition of Ownership: In 2018, ownership transitioned to Riverbank Events and Media
- Community Partners: Amway, Fifth Third Bank, and Corewell Health
- New Title: In 2019, the race became known as the Amway River Bank Run, presented by Fifth Third Bank and Corewell Health
Join Us
The Amway River Bank Run is proud to be celebrating 49 years in 2026 and we hope to see you at the Start Line!
For more information, please visit Amway River Bank Run.
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