Lace up, Lakeland. Springtime is here – and that means it’s time for a flood of 5Ks. 🏃
For all you dedicated dashers or first-time sprinters, here’s a list of 10 spring races in Lakeland (plus more runs in the Polk County area). And, for those of you ready to compete in a triathlon, see our guide on how to give it your best tri here.
Lakeland Airport SUN ‘n RUN 5K
📅 April 6 |📍Lakeland Linder International Airport | 👟 7-11 a.m. | $30 | Participate in one of the most unique 5K race courses in Florida, featuring a starting line flanked by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels plus a launching of over 20 hot air balloons throughout the course.
Red Tent Initiative 5K + Fun Run
📅 April 6 |📍First Presbyterian Church, 175 Lake Hollingsworth Dr. | 👟 8 a.m. | $35 | Proceeds support survivors of abuse.
National Firefighters Day Virtual 5K
📅 May |📍Anywhere | 👟 Anytime | $27 | Run this race anywhere, anytime, in the month of May and submit your results online to benefit the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
📅 April 13 |📍Frances Langford Promenade at Lake Mirror | 👟 8 a.m. | $35 | Proceeds help provide for homeless pets.
Viking Invasion 5K + Kids Fun Run
📅 April 13 |📍Viking Stadium | 👟 7:30 a.m. | $25 | Run with the whole family to benefit the LCS Viking Fund.
📅 April 27 |📍Polk County Sheriff’s Office in Winter Haven | 👟 7-11 a.m. | $30 | Proceeds benefit United Way.
The Florida Run at Colt Creek State Park
📅 April 27 |📍Colt Creek State Park, 16000 State Road 471 | 👟 8 a.m. | $10+ | Run a half marathon, 10K, 5K, or even just one-mile.
📅 April 20 |📍Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium | 👟 5-7 p.m. | $20 | Starting in the stadium parking lot and making its way through Lake Parker Park, this race will end near third base on the Publix Field.
📅 May 11 |📍Lake Mirror Auditorium | 👟 7-9 p.m. | $30 | An evening run through Lakeland’s historic district to benefit the Polk Museum of Art.
Lakeland Police Fallen Heroes Memorial 5K Run
📅 May 18 |📍YMCA, 3620 Cleveland Heights Blvd. | 👟 7 a.m. | $35 | Explore Three Parks trail while supporting the Retired Police K-9 Care Program.
– LALtoday team (Kristin, Jessica, Kaylee, Mackenzie + Cassie)
