Mardi Gras 5K

Laissez les bon temps rouler! Join us on Saturday, January 30, 2027, for the inaugural Mardi Gras 5K, a festive winter run benefiting youth initiatives in our community. 

Whether you're chasing the front of the pack, enjoying a leisurely walk with friends, or simply looking for a unique winter event, everyone is welcome. This family-friendly fun run follows the beautiful Marquette Bike Path before finishing with hot food, warm drinks, and an evening celebration worthy of Bourbon Street.

Your Registration Includes

Custom event T-shirt*
Commemorative finisher's medal
Race bib
Hot jambalaya from Lagniappe Cajun Creole Eatery at the finish line
Fresh coffee from Dead River Coffee at the finish line
Entry to the evening after-party at Ore Dock Brewing Co. featuring live music
*Register by December 31, 2026, to guarantee your preferred shirt size on race day.

Costumes Encouraged!
This wouldn't be Mardi Gras without costumes! Beads, masks, feathers, sequins, purple, green, and gold—we want to see it all. Whether you dress as New Orleans royalty, a jazz musician, a jester, or create something completely original, come ready to celebrate.

Prizes will be awarded to the first male and first female finishers, along with prizes for our favorite Mardi Gras costumes. Then, keep the party going and join us at Ore Dock Brewing Co. beginning at 8:00 PM for live music and an additional 9:00 PM indoor costume contest, where you can show off costumes that are a little more suited for the brewery than the bike path.

Running for a Cause

Every registration makes a difference. 100% of the event's profits will be donated to an organization benefiting youth initiatives. Your participation helps strengthen our community while bringing people together through fitness, fun, and a little Mardi Gras magic.

Race Information

Race Start: 2:00 PM
Starting Line: In front of the Ore Dock structure on Lakeshore Boulevard
Course: Out-and-back along the Marquette Bike Path
Timing: This is a fun-run fundraiser and is not a chip-timed event.
Registration & Packet Pickup
Online registration will remain open until 12:00 AM on race day.

Packet pickup will be available:

Friday, January 29: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Queen City Running Company
Saturday, January 30: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM at Queen City Running Company
Whether you're running for a personal challenge, walking with family, dressing up with friends, or simply supporting a great cause, we'd love to have you join us.

Grab your krewe, lace up your running shoes, and help us bring a little New Orleans spirit to the Upper Peninsula.

We can't wait to celebrate with you. Laissez les bon temps rouler!

For our inaugural year all profits will go to Camp New Day. Camp New Day U.P. is a free, one-week summer camp for youth ages 9–14 in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula who have been impacted by the incarceration of a parent or close family member. The camp provides a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where children can build friendships, confidence, and self-esteem while enjoying traditional camp activities like swimming, crafts, games, and outdoor adventures.