The 2025 runner’s guide to the best races in Wisconsin

Explore Wisconsin’s beauty by participating in the best races of 2025 (from April to December). 

Spring has sprung, and adventure is waiting. One of the greatest ways to explore somewhere new is on foot. There’s something special about taking in new sights and knowing your own two feet are what got you there.

Signing up for a race—whether it’s a 5K or an ultramarathon—is a great way to do just that. Not only are you exploring somewhere new, but you’re also pushing yourself in a different way. Some runners even aim to race in all fifty states—because really, what better way to see the country? 

In Wisconsin, that could mean winding through forested trails, racing past glassy lakes, or running through rolling farmland. Whether you’re a Wisconsin local or looking for a fun (and challenging) way to experience America’s Dairyland, here are some of the best races in Wisconsin to explore in the upcoming months of 2025. 

April races

The Milwaukee Marathon

When: Saturday, April 12 – Sunday, April 13

Where: Milwaukee, WI

Distances: Half marathon, marathon, 5K 

The Milwaukee Marathon draws thousands of runners each year, offering a chance to experience the city’s diverse neighborhoods and scenic landscapes. Held in early spring, the event highlights Milwaukee’s welcoming atmosphere while delivering a memorable race experience. The marathon and half marathon take place on Saturday, guiding runners along unbeatable lakeside views, while the 5K runs through local neighborhoods on Sunday. A virtual option is available for all three races. Be sure to stick around for the post-race party!

Crazylegs Classic

When: Saturday, April 26

Where: Madison, WI

Distances: 8K run, 2-mile walk

The 43rd annual Crazylegs Classic kicks off in 2025! Since 1982, on the last Saturday of April, University of Wisconsin Badgers and fellow runners have gathered at Capitol Square and State Street to take on an 8K run or a 2-mile walk. Both events start at Library Mall and finish on the field at Camp Randall Stadium. And, like any good race, the celebration continues with a post-race party in the stadium—complete with live music, snacks, and a selection of beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.

Statue of Bucky Badger, the mascot of the University of Wisconsin–Madison (Chris Rycroft, CC BY 2.0).

May races

Door County Half Marathon and Nicolet Bay 5k

When: Saturday, May 3

Where: Peninsula State Park, WI

Distances: Half marathon, 5K

Experience one of the Midwest’s most scenic races at the Door County Half Marathon and Nicolet Bay 5K. Both races follow a fully closed road course through the stunning Peninsula State Park in Door County, starting and finishing just steps from the beloved Nicolet Bay Beach. Runners will make their way along the shores of Green Bay, up the bluffs of the Niagara Escarpment, and through the secluded woods of the park, passing historic landmarks and scenic overlooks along the way. You’ll want to stick around after the race for the post-race party!

Madeline Island Marathon

When: Saturday, May 17

Where: Madeline Island, WI

Distances: Marathon and half marathon 

Run through the forest and along the shore at the Madeline Island Marathon and Half Marathon. Both courses follow a loop route, primarily on roads with a short stretch of gravel. The races start and finish at Joni’s Beach, offering a flat, fast, and beautiful course—perfect for a speedy scenic race. Afterward, celebrate at the post-race party!

Runners take off at the start line of the Madeline Island Marathon in Wisconsin. (Steve Aggergaard Photography, SmugMug).

June races

City of Trails Trail Race

When: Saturday, June 7 

Where: St. Croix Falls, WI

Distances: 2K, “Lil’ Hiker Hustle,” 5K, 10K, half marathon, marathon

Tough, gorgeous, and unforgettable—that’s how runners describe the City of Trails Trail Race. This one-of-a-kind event offers a range of trail race distances, whether you’re chasing a PR or just looking to enjoy a day hiking the scenic trails of St. Croix Falls. All races start and finish at Trap Rock Brewing Company, where the celebration continues with an epic post-race party.

Lighthouse Run

When: Saturday, June 14

Where: Racine, WI

Distances: 10 mile, 4 mile, 2 mile, kids run 

Experience one of Wisconsin’s premier races at the Racine Family YMCA Lighthouse Run. Held in Racine, WI, this event is both scenic and memorable, offering options for every type of runner. Competitive racers can take on the 10-mile or 4-mile courses, while noncompetitive runners have 2-mile and 4-mile fun run options. There’s even a kids’ run for the little ones who love to race. Afterward, relax at Festival Park, cheer on other participants, and enjoy complimentary beer from CJW.

Historic Racine Breakwater Lighthouse on Lake Michigan in Racine, Wisconsin (cmh2315fl, CC BY-NC 2.0).

July races

Storm the Bastille 

When: Thursday, July 17

Where: Milwaukee, WI

Distances: 1.5 miles, 5K

The annual Storm the Bastille 5K commemorates the storming of the Bastille, the 18th-century French prison—an event that sparked the French Revolution. Held in the evening, this fun night race takes participants through downtown and the Third Ward. Runners can choose to stop at 1.5 miles or continue to complete the full 5K. Of course, the best part of this race is the afterparty! This race kicks off Bastille Days, a larger festival happening from July 17–20. Start the weekend with a festive 5K walk or run, then keep the celebration going all weekend long!

AirVenture Runway 5K

When: Saturday, July 26

Where: Oshkosh, WI

Distances: 5K

Fly through the AirVenture Runway 5K in Oshkosh—where “RUNway” takes on a whole new meaning. This unique race lets you experience one of the country’s busiest airports from a runner’s perspective, right on the runway, alongside incredible aircraft while witnessing a beautiful sunrise over evergreen trees and open fields. It’s the perfect way to kick off Oshkosh AirVenture week, one of the year’s biggest aviation events!

August races

Madison Mini Marathon and 5k

When: Saturday, August 9

Where: Madison, WI

Distances: Half marathon, 5K, kids run 

See the best of Madison on foot at the Madison Mini Marathon and 5K. This fun and scenic race takes runners through some of the city’s most historic and iconic spots. After 13.1 or 3.2 miles, celebrate your achievement at the post-race party, featuring live music and stunning views of Lake Mendota. 

Stunning view of the Lake Mendota shoreline at sunset in Madison, WI. (College.library, CC BY 2.0).

Rockin Brews Marathon

When: Saturday, August 30

Where: Monona, WI

Distance: Marathon, half marathon, 5K, 

Rock and run at the Rockin’ Brews Marathon! Whether you’re chasing a PR or just out for a great day of running, this race brings together three of the best things—running, live music, and craft beer. The course follows the scenic shores of Lake Monona with views of downtown Madison before leading runners to the “Finish Line Festival,” a post-race party packed with local beers, ciders, and live music. Does it get any better than that?

September races

Ragnar Trail Wisconsin 

When: Friday, September 19 – Saturday, September 20

Where: Nine Mile Forest, Wausau, WI

Distance: 117 Mile Ragnar Race

If you haven’t heard of Ragnar racing, you’re missing out. Ragnar Trail is the ultimate two-day team running event, covering about 120 miles through day and night. When you’re not running, you’ll be partying at Ragnar Village or getting some rest. The Ragnar Trail Wisconsin race offers miles of forest running through the wild beauty of Wisconsin’s Nine Mile Forest. Teams can range in size from eight, four, or two runners, or opt for the sprint team option: three runners completing the race in a single day instead of two. Grab your best friends and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Wonderful Water Run

When: Friday, September 26 – Saturday, September 27

Where: Stevens Point, WI

Distance: Half marathon, 10K, 5K, kids fun run 

Experience the beautiful fall colors at one of Wisconsin’s most scenic races. The Wonderful Water Run takes runners through a gorgeous course that weaves through the city, trails, and roads, past the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and around Lake Joanis. Runners can choose from a half marathon, 10K, or 5K, all taking place on Saturday morning. There’s also a kids’ fun run on Friday to kick off the weekend. 

Image of Pfiffner Pioneer Park, the location of Wonderful Water Run’s start and finish line, in beautiful Steven’s Point, WI., (Wonderful Water Run/Facebook).

October races

Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon

When: Saturday, October 4 – Sunday, October 5

Where: Milwaukee, WI

Distances: Marathon, half marathon, 5K

Rightly named “A Great Race on a Great Lake,” the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon is known for its scenic route along the shores of Lake Michigan. Runners will take in stunning views and cross the iconic Hoan Bridge along the way. With four events to choose from, including the marathon and a 5K walk, there’s something for every athlete, guaranteeing a race to remember. Oh, and don’t forget to attend the epic post-race party, complete with food, beverages, entertainment, and more! 

Hot Cider Hustle Half Marathon and 5K

When: Date TBD. Coming soon!

Where: Shorewood, WI

Distances: Half marathon, 5K

Get ready for one of the coziest races in the Midwest—the Hot Cider Hustle Half Marathon and 5K. This flat, fast course is pure Johnny Appleseed vibes, taking runners along the Oak Leaf Trail at the peak of fall colors. At the finish line, you’ll be welcomed with fresh hot apple cider and delicious caramel apples. This scenic, Wisconsin classic is not to be missed. 

November races

The Madison Marathon

When: Sunday, November 9

Where: Madison, WI

Distances: Marathon, half marathon, 10K

Starting in Capitol Square, the Madison Marathon takes runners through the city’s most iconic areas, no matter which distance you choose—marathon, half marathon, or 10K. Along with the chance to run through beautiful Madison, your registration includes FREE race photos, a complimentary beer, and post-race snacks. 

Oak Creek Turkey Trot

When: Friday, November 28 (subject to change)

Where: Racine, WI

Distances: 5K

Who doesn’t love a good ol’ turkey trot? I mean, is there a better way to celebrate being thankful for your body and all it lets you do? I don’t think so! So, join the Oak Creek Turkey Trot for a walk or run along the Lake Michigan pathway on Racine’s lakefront. This flat, fun, and scenic course is the perfect way to celebrate Thanksgiving weekend!

December races

Santa Hustle 

When: Sunday, December 7

Where: Milwaukee, WI

Distances: 5K, kids’ dash

Runnin’ around the Christmas Tree—have a happy holiday! Milwaukee’s Santa Hustle is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season. Not only does the 5K course bring plenty of holiday cheer, but it also features cookie and candy stations (YUM!). Each registration includes a special apparel item, a beanie, and a finisher’s medal. There’s also a Rudolph Kids Dash for the little ones who love to run. Put on your best holiday gear and get ready for a cheer-filled race!

Run, Santa, Run 5k

When: Date TBD (coming soon!)

Where: Madison, WI

Distances: 5K

Run faster than the Grinch and earn a free slice of pizza at the Run, Santa, Run 5K in Madison. This fun, holiday-themed 5K course features three special stations, each offering something festive—like a Hershey Chocolate Kissing Station, a Bundt Cake Station, and a Cookie Station. Once you cross the finish line, keep the holiday spirit going at the North Pole Post Race Party, where you’ll enjoy a live DJ, beverages, treats, and much more!

The Grinch gets a head start at the Run Santa Run 5K in Madison, WI. (Run, Santa, Run 5K/Facebook).

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.