Lakes Entrance will welcome a major new event next spring with the launch of the Lakes Entrance Running Festival, a two-day celebration of fitness and community set against the backdrop of the East Gippsland coastline.
The inaugural festival will be held on Saturday, October 31, and Sunday, November 1, 2026, offering a full suite of distances including a marathon, half marathon, 10-kilometre, five-kilometre and two-kilometre family-friendly run.
Organisers say the event has been developed to highlight both the natural beauty of the region and the strong community
that supports it.
The festival is expected to draw participants from across Victoria and interstate, providing a welcome boost to local tourism
operators, hospitality venues and accommodation providers.
Matt Morris, head of events at Fit City Events, said Lakes Entrance offers an ideal setting for runners of all levels.
“Lakes Entrance is the perfect place to run – where the sea breeze meets the sunrise,” Morris said.
The festival is designed to be more than just a race, it will be an opportunity for people to come together, enjoy the coast and create a memorable weekend in one of Victoria’s most iconic seaside towns.
East Gippsland Shire Council mayor, councillor Jodie Ashworth, welcomed the addition of the festival to the local events calendar.
“This running festival is a fantastic new event for our community,” Ashworth said.
She is excited for what it could do for
the region.
“It will bring visitors into the region, support local businesses and showcase the beautiful environment we’re proud of here in East Gippsland. We look forward to seeing locals and visitors take part and enjoy what should be a standout weekend for Lakes Entrance,” Ashworth said.
The event is expected to feature a mix of competitive racing and family-oriented activities, giving residents and tourists multiple ways to be involved.
Local businesses and community groups will also have opportunities to participate through volunteering, sponsorship and festival activations.
