Save the Manatee 5K

Help save the manatee! Join participants from around the world helping manatees by participating in the 23rd Annual Save the Manatee 5K! The in-person Save the Manatee 5K will be held on Sunday, November 15, 2026, at 8 a.m. ET at Blue Spring State Park in Orange City, FL. November 15 is the official kick-off day of Manatee Season in Florida, so what better way to welcome the manatees back to Blue Spring! The race will start and finish at Blue Spring State Park, winter home of the manatee, and will go along the scenic, flat Spring-to-Spring Trail adjacent to the park. Race registration includes park admission fee. Runners and walkers of all paces and ages are welcome, and there will be awards for the top 3 male and female finishers. This is a family- and dog-friendly event. Proceeds go to Save the Manatee Club. After the race you may even see some manatees in the spring run.

You can also participate virtually from anywhere in the world on the date and time you choose. You pick your activity and distance; run, walk, bike, swim, kayak, scuba, or hike your favorite course at your convenience. Registration includes: Manatee Unisex Cotton/Polyester Blend T-shirt, an amazing Manatee Finisher Medal, and Race Bib.

PACKET PICK-UP
Early packet pick-up will take place at Front Running Sports in Lake Mary the week prior to the event.
Packet pick-up will also be available on race day starting at 6:30 a.m. at Blue Spring State Park.

EVENT SCHEDULE RACE DAY NOVEMBER 15, 2026
6:30 a.m. – Packet Pickup and Registration Opens
8:00 a.m. – Race Starts

FINISHER MEDAL
Custom Finisher Medals will be provided.

KIDS
12 and under could get a free stuffed manatee at the race (in-person only)

AWARDS
Top 3 overall male and female will receive awards. There will also be medal tags for top 3 male and female in each age group.

PARKING
Parking will be inside Blue Spring State Park. Park admission is included in the registration fee.

PROCEEDS
Proceeds support Save the Manatee Club.

TIMING & SCORING
Race will be timed and scored with a disposable chip provided, which will be attached to the back of the bib