43rd Annual Reeds Lake Resolution Run

  • Date Wed 31st December 2025
  • Time 1:30PM EST
  • Location Grand Rapids, Michigan
  • Price $17.50 - $38.00
  • Races 2 races

Event summary

Join us for the 43rd Annual Reeds Lake Resolution Run on December 31, 2025, in beautiful East Grand Rapids, Michigan! This cherished New Year's Eve tradition invites runners and walkers alike to embrace the spirit of the season on a scenic 4-mile USATF certified course around the picturesque Reeds Lake. Kicking off at 2:00 PM near East Grand Rapids Middle School, participants will finish in front of Collins Park, where celebratory cheers await! This year, weโ€™re excited to introduce a special kidsโ€™ race at 1:30 PM for our youngest athletes aged 12 and under, making it a perfect family-friendly event.

Since its inception by local legend Joe O'Brien in 1982, the Resolution Run has grown into a beloved community celebration, attracting over 700 participants last year. Not only does this race provide a fantastic opportunity to reflect on the past year and set intentions for the new one, but a portion of the proceeds will also benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities - West Michigan, supporting families during challenging times. Whether you're a seasoned runner or a first-timer, come brave the crisp winter air and create lasting memories as we close out the year in style. After the race,

Organiser's Description

THE RESOLUTION RUN: WHERE TRADITION MEETS NEW YEAR'S FUN!

Welcome to the 43rd Annual Reeds Lake Resolution Run, a cherished New Year's Eve tradition in East Grand Rapids, Michigan! This USATF certified 4-mile course around the scenic Reeds Lake offers runners and walkers a memorable way to bid farewell to the old year on December 31st.



We're thrilled to announce the addition of a kids' race this year, making our event a true family affair. We have moved the main race to 2:00 PM with the start near East Grand Rapids Middle School and the finish in front of Collins Park. Our youngest participants (12 and under) will have their own special course and start time of 1:30 PM.



Since its inception in 1982 by the late Joe O'Brien, this race has evolved from a local gathering to a beloved community tradition, attracting over 700 participants last year. It's more than just a run; it's a celebration of personal achievements, community spirit, and new beginnings!



The Resolution Run continues to honor Joe's legacy of supporting local causes and giving back to the community. In this spirit, a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities - West Michigan, supporting their mission to keep families close during challenging times.



As the final race of the year, the Resolution Run provides the perfect opportunity to reflect on the past year's accomplishments and set intentions for the new one. Whether you're an experienced runner or a first-time participant, all are welcome to join in this supportive and festive atmosphere.



Brave the crisp winter air for this "frigidly fun" race around Reeds Lake. Hang around post-race for a scaled-up after party. Create lasting memories, set your resolutions, and be part of a tradition that has united the community for over four decades. Let's close out the year on a high note and step into the new one together!



THE NITTY-GRITTY (AKA EVENT DETAILS)
WHEN: New Year's Eve (because traditions are meant to be timely!)
WHERE: East Grand Rapids, MI (our home turf for over four decades!)
THE ROUTE: Our classic 4-mile loop around Reeds Lake (unchanged since '82 - why mess with perfection?) but new this year, it's USATF Certified. Come set a national record!
KICKOFF: Near East Grand Rapids Middle School
FINISH LINE: John Collins Park (where we've been high-fiving finishers for years!)



A RUN DOWN MEMORY LANE
Guys, this isn't just any old race - we're talking about a proper East Grand Rapids tradition here! Way back in 1982, local legend Joe O'Brien kicked off this New Year's Eve party disguised as a run. Joe, the brains behind Genesis Sports and Classic Race Management, also coached at East Grand Rapids High School. He started something special, and we're keeping his legacy alive with this end-of-year tradition!



OTHER DETAILS:
Early Packet pickup at Big Bob's. December 30. 4pm-7pm.
Day of Packet pickup and post-race party at Big Bob's: 661 Croswell Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49506

Shiny new hardware for you traditionalists: Die-cast medals (fancy, but we think Joe would approve)
Disco Ball medals for the kids. First 1000 registered for the 4 mile will receive the die cast medal.
Shirts for all participants with custom artwork by Anthony Carpenter. (Deadline December 23rd)

OVERALL AND AGE GROUP AWARDS (MEN/WOMEN/NON-BINARY):
12 and under
13-19
20-24
25-29
30-34
35-39
40-44
45-59
50-54
55-59
60-64
65-69
70-74
75-79
80 - above

Races

  • 4 Mile

    Incl. $3.00 Fee & Long Sleeve Race Shirt

    Wed 31st December 2025 (2:00PM EST)

    $38.00

    OPENS SOON
    Course around Reeds Lake in East Grand Rapids, MI
  • Kids Race

    Incl. $2.50 Fee & Hooded Sweatshirt

    Wed 31st December 2025 (1:30PM EST)

    $17.50

    OPENS SOON

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Location

East Grand Rapids, 750 Lakeside Dr, Grand Rapids, 49506, MI, United States

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