Wisconsin is known as the home of milk and cheese. But it is also a running state. If you google “races in Wisconsin”, you might be surprised by the wide variety.
To help you sort through your choices, we have selected the best thematic, trail, 5k/10k, and marathons/half-marathons in the Badger State.
Thematic Running Races in Wisconsin
1. The Wisconsin Beer Run 5k & .05k
Beer runs in Wisconsin are popular events because they always gather a lot of people and provide good memories and emotions. Usually, there are three runs in this series: Green bay beer run, Milwaukee beer run, and The Wisconsin Beer Run. But, we’ll focus on the last of them for now.
This Wisconsin race takes place in Eagle, WI, in October. Participants may run 5k ($50) or 0.5k ($45).
The highlight of the run is a course that passes through crafted and unique areas of Old World Wisconsin, the Crossroads Village, The Life on The Farms, and the modern animal barn.
Of course, there will be a lot of beer – each runner will get a sample of Old World’s historic beer and plenty of other craft beers. You can also take your family and friends – even if they don’t run. They can buy spectator tickets and observe the race from the stands.
2. Kickin’ It with the Cows
This annual festival takes place in Wrightstown in August. It includes a 10K Run/Walk, a 5K Run/Walk, a Virtual 10K Run/Walk, a Virtual 5K Run/Walk, a 1/4-mile Kids’ Run, and a Family Festival.
The Family Festival will have lots of snacks and entertainment, such as face painting, games, and live calves to pet. Participation is $35, and the Kids’ Walk is free. Most of the proceeds will go to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
3. Apple Dumplings Day Races
Apple Dumplings Day Races take place in Elroy in September. This event is for those who like eating sweet and delicious apple dumplings. By participating in the race, you are guaranteed to get one.
What else do you get besides dumplings? You can run a 5k, half-marathon, or marathon. The price for early birds is $25, $45, or $60.
Your kids can participate in Kids’ races for $10. The course is a dream for those who like to combine trail and ordinary running.
Besides, you can win a bust of either Brett Favre or Michael Jordan or an Elroy bikers shirt or sweatshirt.
4. Madison Turkey Trot
This event is for you if you are looking for races in Madison, WI. It takes place in Dane County on Thanksgiving Day. Each year it attracts 5 thousand people.
You can run a 5k, untimed 5k, 5K Kid’s Division Fun Run (11 years and under), Kids Dash (age 8 & under), and Virtual 5k. The price for each course is from $25 to $60, depending on the type of race and time of registration.
Besides a good run, you can try the famous Greenbush Bakery Donuts and many other tasty snacks.
Also, consider other fun Wisconsin runs during this period: Turkey Trot in Milwaukee, Hot Cider Hustle in Shorewood, and Hot Cider Hustle in Green Bay.
As you see, the Wisconsin running calendar is full of running events for those who like not only running but also tasty food and good drinks.
5. Drumstick Dash
This race is dedicated to Thanksgiving and takes place in Milwaukee. It is a Family Thanksgiving Day Tradition, which gathers more than 5 thousand people each year.
Here you can run a 5k or 2.5k. The price changes yearly, and registration closes one week before the event. You can also donate to Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin, the leading hunger relief organization in the state.
All adult participants will get a Pocketed Hoodie Sweatshirt, and all children will get a T-shirt. Also, all runners get a 5-inch Pumpkin Pie at the finish line and a Milwaukee Brewers Bobblehead for those over 21.
It is a great opportunity to spend Thanksgiving in good company, doing favorite activities, and helping a charity organization.
5K in Wisconsin
6. Gilda’s Run Walk
This wonderful family running event takes place in Middleton in October. Each year the race hosts from 500 to a thousand participants of different ages.
The price for participation is from $34 to $45. The proceeds stay local and support families affected by cancer. The best fundraisers get prizes.
Gather your family and friends to participate in this event with tasty hamburgers at the finish line!
7. Run to Milwaukee Irish Fest
Milwaukee races are exciting and original, and “Run to Milwaukee Irish Fest” is no exception. This running event is very popular – from 1000 to 5000 runners from all over attend each year.
The race takes place in August in Milwaukee and passes along the beautiful shores of Milwaukee Lake. Ireland’s Run/Walk to Milwaukee Festival is the longest-running heritage festival 5K Fun Run.
The runner can choose to run or walk 5k. The price for adults is from $35 to $45, and for children, from $20 to $25, depending on the time you pass registration – early birds always pay less.
Of course, there will be a grand celebration with dances and a lot of beer after the finish!
10K Races in Wisconsin
8. Run for the Fallen
This race is dedicated to those 403 first responders who saved many lives during the devastating attacks on the World Trade Center.
Each September in Kronenwetter, hundreds run to honor their heroism. Register for the race to support the National Firefighters Foundation’s programs, assisting colleagues and families of fallen hero firefighters in all countries.
Here you can run a 5k ($30) or a 10k ($35) plus the registration fee. The price for firefighters is $25.
9. Kringle Krush
The previous name of the race was “Chocoholic.” The reason is its location – it takes place in Burlington, well known as Chocolate City USA because it is the home of “Nestle.” The event is very popular, gathering more than 5 thousand runners each year.
If you like chocolates and running, come to Burlington in May to run a 5k or 10k. The price changes each year, so check the website when they open registration.
Register, run your distance, and enjoy Kringle Krush – a tasty Danish delight with a malt beverage to diversify the taste.
Wisconsin Trail Runs
10. Underdown Trail Races
Do you like trail running? Then Wisconsin has something to offer you! The Underdown Trail Races take place in the middle of August in Merill. This amazing event is for skilled runners ready to run a 50k, half-marathon, or marathon.
The price for participation is from $60 to $85, depending on the time you register.
The course is primarily singletrack climbing hills that pass by isolated lakes and dozens of boardwalks. The runners can have a wilderness experience on challenging trails formed from glaciers that swept through the area thousands of years ago.
This is a hard race, so before registering, you have to be sure that your physical fitness is high. If you have never tried trail running, this course is not for you – start with a simpler race. Moreover, you must experience being in the woods alone – you can meet a bear here.
Don’t forget about live music from Santy and Sons with food, beer, and other goodies after the finish!
11. Procrastination Run
Don’t think this is an easy race because of the name – one of the courses is called “Killer Hill,” and that is no accident. The course is on wide groomed trails, which are chipped-covered, but some areas have rocks and roots.
If such a course doesn’t scare you, come to Waukesha in September. You can choose a 5k, 10k, or half-marathon.
The price is from $30 to $40. Children can run the Kiddo’s 1k if their parents are participants in the race.
Marathons and Half-Marathons in Wisconsin
12. Cellcom Green Bay Marathon
Come to Green Bay in May to participate in this cool running event where you can run a marathon/half-marathon/5k/26.2 relay/13.1 half relay. The course is very fast and flat.
The price is from $35 to $115, depending on the age and type of race you choose. The event is entirely charitable, so registration is free if you raise $300 or more.
To learn more, visit the official website.
13. Rockin Brews Marathon
If you are looking for running races near Madison, WI, pay attention to Rockin Brews Marathon. This fantastic holiday of running and tasty crafted beer takes place each year in Madison in September.
The event is a Boston Qualifier, so it is very popular and attracts many professional runners each year.
You can choose between a marathon, half-marathon, half-marathon walks (timed), and team relays (Boston Qualifiers). The price of participation is from $40 to $120, depending on the race.
The Finish Line Festival, music, and tasty snacks await you after crossing the finish line.
14. Wausau Marathon
This running event is certified by USA Track & Field. It takes place in August and qualifies many skilled runners for the Boston Marathon.
You can choose between a marathon, half-marathon, or marathon relay. The course tracks through some of Wausau’s most incredible scenery and has plenty of beautiful views.
For early birds, the registration price is very low. If you wait, it increases to $300, depending on the distance. The best way to save money is to register by the end of May.
Participants can enjoy food, beverages, race shirts, and a variety of entertainment after the race.
15. Boston Bound Marathon
This Wisconsin marathon is a favorite among professional runners because it is a qualifier for the Boston Marathon. The marathon and half-marathon are certified by USATF.
The run takes place in Milwaukee in Menomonee Falls High School in August. The course is very fast and comfortable with a one-mile loop.
The price for participation is from $75 to $110; it changes month after month, so hurry up to register in time!
16. Fox Cities Marathon
The Community First Fox Cities Marathon is a weekend running event that attracts 5 thousand runners from all over the world.
Runners experience one of the most community-supported races in the country. It takes place in Menasha in the middle of September and offers a 5k, 10k, half-marathon, marathon, fun run, relay, and runs for kids.
Prices are from $30 to $125 for single runners and $250 for a team. Fox Cities Marathon in Wisconsin is also a Boston Marathon Qualifier.
This is a nice way for the whole family to spend a fall weekend.
Wrap Up
We tried to mention the most noteworthy races of all types. So, check out our list, choose your favorite, pass registration, and get ready to run.
