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Happy Little Trees program

Green background with Happy Little Trees in white text and outline of a line of trees and Bob Ross with paintbrush

Happy Little Trees program

T-Shirt, medal and bib with Bob Ross-inspired design

Registration for the 2026 Happy Little 5K now open

Ready to run (or walk, or roll) for the trees?

This virtual event, which takes place between April 18-26, 2026, honors iconic art instructor and television host Bob Ross while supporting tree-planting and forest-protection efforts. Registration for this event, which is a collaboration between the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Bob Ross Inc. and a dozen other states supports tree-planting and forest health in state parks!

  • Pick your pace and place, anywhere outdoors during the nine-day window that includes both Earth Day (April 22) and Arbor Day (April 24).
  • Registration fee is $36 per person (and includes shipping). You'll be able to select the state of your choice when you register.
  • You'll receive a keepsake T-shirt, sticker, commemorative bib and finisher’s medal.

Participation grew again last year – more than 10,000 people, in Michigan and across a dozen other states, participated in the 2025 event. The 2025 event raised more than $200,000 for tree-planting and forest health, with each state receiving funds proportional to its participation.

Sign up for 5K »

Support Happy Little Trees!

Show your support for trees in state parks by donating to the tree planting and protection fund. This fund supports forest stewardship and protection in state parks, such as planting trees and fighting invasive species and diseases.

Make a donation