31st Summer Sunrise Watermelon Series | Lakeland, FL
- Date Sat 13th June 2026 - Sat 8th August 2026
- Time 7:00AM EDT
- Location Lakeland, Florida
- Price Free - $54.00
- Races 5 races
- Distances 5km
Event summary
Join us for the 31st Summer Sunrise Watermelon Series, a thrilling three-race 5K event taking place in beautiful Lakeland, FL, from June 13 to August 8, 2026. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Hollingsworth, this series promises to be a celebration of summer, fitness, and community spirit. Whether you're an experienced runner looking to chase your personal best or a casual walker ready to enjoy the sunshine, everyone is invited to participate in this vibrant event.
The Watermelon Series not only brings together athletes of all abilities but also supports a noble cause, as proceeds from the races fund scholarships for deserving Polk County students. Since its inception in 2011, this event has awarded over $123,000 to high school seniors, making your participation even more meaningful. Each race is held on a USATF-certified course, is chip-timed, and welcomes walkers to join in the fun. So lace up your shoes, embrace the challenge, and help us #GetSweatyForScholarships while enjoying a fantastic summer experience!
The Watermelon Series not only brings together athletes of all abilities but also supports a noble cause, as proceeds from the races fund scholarships for deserving Polk County students. Since its inception in 2011, this event has awarded over $123,000 to high school seniors, making your participation even more meaningful. Each race is held on a USATF-certified course, is chip-timed, and welcomes walkers to join in the fun. So lace up your shoes, embrace the challenge, and help us #GetSweatyForScholarships while enjoying a fantastic summer experience!
Organiser's Description
_This race is held by the Lakeland Runners Club, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to promote running and fitness for people of all ages and abilities in the community._
SUMMER SUNRISE WATERMELON SERIES
The Summer Sunrise Watermelon Race Series isnt just a raceits a celebration of summer, competition, and community. Whether you're an elite runner chasing a personal best or a walker soaking in the morning sunshine, this three-race 5K series welcomes everyone to embrace the challenge. Run a single 5k or sign up for the three race series.
Held at Lake Hollingsworth in Lakeland, FL, each race brings fast times, fierce competition, and a vibrant atmosphere. The event has long been a proving ground for top local athletes while remaining an inviting experience for casual runners and walkers alike.
Beyond the finish line, the Watermelon 5K Series fuels scholarship funding for Polk County studentsa tradition that started in 2011 and has grown to over $123,000 awarded to deserving high school seniors. So lace up, hit the pavement, and #GetSweatyForScholarships!
Walkers are welcome at this event. The Watermelon 5k is held on a USATF-certified course (FL21019JK). The race is chip-timed.
We are unable to mail bibs, shirts, finisher medals, or awards.
If you are not able to attend, please make arrangements for in-person pickup. A friend or family member may collect your packet during the scheduled packet pickup window or retrieve your award during the awards ceremony. Please refer to the race info for specific times and locations.
Any shirts not picked up before the race begins will be available for exchange after the race.
Please see our menu for details on:
FAQ
How to Participate
Race Details
Maps
How to Support the Event as a Donor or Sponsor
Volunteer Information
SUMMER SUNRISE WATERMELON SERIES
The Summer Sunrise Watermelon Race Series isnt just a raceits a celebration of summer, competition, and community. Whether you're an elite runner chasing a personal best or a walker soaking in the morning sunshine, this three-race 5K series welcomes everyone to embrace the challenge. Run a single 5k or sign up for the three race series.
Held at Lake Hollingsworth in Lakeland, FL, each race brings fast times, fierce competition, and a vibrant atmosphere. The event has long been a proving ground for top local athletes while remaining an inviting experience for casual runners and walkers alike.
Beyond the finish line, the Watermelon 5K Series fuels scholarship funding for Polk County studentsa tradition that started in 2011 and has grown to over $123,000 awarded to deserving high school seniors. So lace up, hit the pavement, and #GetSweatyForScholarships!
Walkers are welcome at this event. The Watermelon 5k is held on a USATF-certified course (FL21019JK). The race is chip-timed.
We are unable to mail bibs, shirts, finisher medals, or awards.
If you are not able to attend, please make arrangements for in-person pickup. A friend or family member may collect your packet during the scheduled packet pickup window or retrieve your award during the awards ceremony. Please refer to the race info for specific times and locations.
Any shirts not picked up before the race begins will be available for exchange after the race.
Please see our menu for details on:
FAQ
How to Participate
Race Details
Maps
How to Support the Event as a Donor or Sponsor
Volunteer Information
Races
-
3 Race 5K Series
Incl. $4.00 Fee & Shirt
Sat 13th June 2026 (7:00AM EDT)
$54.00
Your Entry Includes 3 Chip Time Races 3 Finisher Medals 1 Series Shirt Age Group Award Eligible if all races completed -
June 5k
Incl. $2.50 Fee
Sat 13th June 2026 (7:00AM EDT)
$27.50
Your entry includes Single Chip-timed 5k 1 Finisher Medal Does NOT include a race shirt -
July 5k
Incl. $2.50 Fee
Sat 11th July 2026 (7:00AM EDT)
$27.50
Your entry includes Single Chip-timed 5k 1 Finisher Medal Does NOT include a race shirt -
August 5k
Incl. $2.50 Fee
Sat 8th August 2026 (7:00AM EDT)
$27.50
Your entry includes Single Chip-timed 5k 1 Finisher Medal Does NOT include a race shirt -
Stroller Rider
Sat 13th June 2026 (7:00AM EDT)
Free
Registration and waiver for stroller riders.
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920 Lake Hollingsworth Dr, Lake Hollingsworth Park, Lakeland, 33803, FL, United States
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31st Summer Sunrise Watermelon Series | Lakeland, FL
