September 27, 2026 | Oakland University, Rochester, MI
5K Run / 5K Walk • 10K • Kids Race
Join Michigan'sPremier
Fall Race Experience
5K. 10K. Kids Race. OU Pride. Community Impact.
Be a part of something bigger than a run. The Golden Grizzlies Festival of Races is a celebration of movement, legacy, and purpose.
Whether you’re racing, walking, or cheering, you’re helping build a healthier future for our community and for Oakland University student-athletes.
Experience the 2025 Festival of Races
2026 Festival of Races Events
5k Run/Walk
Kids Run (Ages 10 and Under)
Student 5k (Only Registrations With an Oakland.edu Email Will Be Accepted)
5k Run/Walk (No T-Shirt Included)
10k Run (No T-Shirt Included)
All Levels Sponsors
You Run. They Rise.
This race supports more than just finish lines. It supports futures.
1,300 participants last year. Goal: 2,000 in 2026
Proceeds directly benefit OU Cross Country / Track & Field student-athletes.
This festival helps fund many resources critical to our student-athlete development and experience.
What You'll Experience
Smiles | Fun | Coffee
Great prizes | Giveaways | Race photos
Landmarks: Elliott Tower | Meadow Brook Hall | OUCU O'Rena
Music | Photo ops | Activities
Grizzlies Health and Wellness Row | And more!
FREE Kids Race with Grizz the Mascot (age 10 & under)
Course Maps
The Golden Grizzlies 5k and 10k course is a scenic, challenging adventure! Start the race alongside the Elaine Leigh Track and Field Complex and navigate your way through campus. Be ready for some hills! They don't call it Rochester Hills for nothing!
You'll run by exciting Oakland University landmarks like the Dodge Mansion and Meadowbrook Amphitheatre for the 5k route and the Elliot Tower along the 10k route.
Become a Sponsor or Vendor
Want your brand front and center at one of Michigan’s most anticipated races?
Hundreds of participants and spectators | Local families, athletes, students, and alumni | A passionate community that values wellness and engagement
Oakland Alumni: We Want You to Come Home!
Connect again as you support the development of future Golden Grizzlies!
New Meadow Brook Hall Medal for 2026!
Year 2 of the Golden Grizzlies Festival of Races medal series pays homage to Meadow Brook Hall, one of Oakland University's most historical landmarks.
Whether you choose the Kids Race, 5K, or 10K, you will take home a collectible medal inspired by one of Oakland University's most treasured landmarks.
