2026 Michigan Fruit Belt Series 20th Anniversary

2026 Marks the 20th Anniversary of the "Michigan Fruit Belt Series". This year's calendar includes 10 community events across West-Michigan including South Haven and Paw Paw. Below is a link to the RunSignUp complete list of events.

Run. Walk. Fuel Your Body with Michigan’s Best.
The Michigan Fruit Belt Series is a unique fitness initiative that brings communities together to celebrate health, wellness, and Michigan’s rich fruit-growing heritage. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a casual walker, this series offers a fun and rewarding way to stay active while supporting local agriculture.

Why Participate?
Fuel your body with “The Good Stuff”—Michigan-grown fruit—and experience the difference.
Promote Healthy Living – Embrace an active lifestyle while learning the benefits of incorporating fresh fruit into your daily diet.
Support Michigan Agriculture – Celebrate and “grow” the state’s fruit industry with every step you take.
Connect with Community – Join participants across Michigan in a shared commitment to fitness and wellness.

Earn Your Commemorative Medal
Participants who complete five qualifying 5K or longer run/walk events and record certified finish times will receive a Commemorative Gold Coin Medallion.

2026 Event Season
May 25 – October 24, 2026
Plan your races, track your progress, and enjoy the journey throughout the season.

About the Series
Founded in 2007 as part of the Presidential Fitness Program, the Michigan Fruit Belt Series has been recognized as a Pure Michigan Fitness Series. The program has been reviewed and endorsed by the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports for its physical activity content.

Important Information
Medallions are awarded upon completion of your fifth qualifying race, once your official time has been recorded and posted.
Endorsement applies to physical activity content only and does not extend to sponsoring organizations or associated products.

5/25: Bloomingdale Red, White, and Blueberry Memorial Day Run

6/13: Hartford Strawberry Run

7/4: Watervliet Gene Bednarowski Memorial Cherry Run

7/11: Traverse City Cherry Orchard Run

8/1: Coloma Glad-Peach Run

8/8: South Haven Blueberry Run

9/5: Lawrence Watermelon Run

9/12: Paw Paw Grape Lake Run

9/19: Bangor Apple Run

10/24: Buchanan Salmon Scramble Su-pear 5K and Fun Run