Save the Manatee 5K
About This Event
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
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Local Running Stores
Clermont, Central Florida
Dash Sports is Clermont's specialty running and walking shoe store, serving the South Lake County running community from its location on West Montrose Street in downtown Clermont. The store takes a thorough approach to fitting — each customer receives a custom gait and foot analysis that typically runs 20 to 40 minutes, ensuring the shoe recommendation is grounded in how you actually move. Clermont's reputation as a triathlon and endurance sports hub makes Dash Sports a natural resource for serious athletes alongside everyday runners and walkers. The store carries a strong lineup of performance brands including Hoka, On Running, Brooks, New Balance, and Altra, giving customers access to the leading options in road, trail, and stability footwear. Dash Sports also stocks Olukai and Aetrex for customers seeking comfort and orthopedic options alongside performance footwear — rounding out a selection that serves runners, walkers, and recovery-focused athletes alike.
phone (352) 394-7434 language Visit WebsiteAltamonte Springs, Central Florida
Fit2Run Altamonte Springs is located in Altamonte Mall, bringing the Runner's Superstore experience to Seminole County. Offering gait analysis, top performance footwear, and community run events for the growing north Orlando running community.
phone (844) 348-2786 language Visit WebsiteLake Buena Vista, Central Florida
Fit2Run at Disney Springs is the only running specialty store inside the Walt Disney World Resort destination. Open late to serve resort guests and locals alike, offering gait analysis, top performance brands, and a one-of-a-kind running store experience in the heart of Central Florida tourism.
phone (407) 743-5990 language Visit WebsiteSave the Manatee 5K
November 15, 2026