Orange County 5Ks, 10Ks, Fun Runs & Races 2026

Orange County hosts 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, trail races, Turkey Trots and family fun runs throughout the year. Whether you're training for a major event like the OC Marathon, looking for a kid-friendly race like the Dino Dash, or searching for a themed or holiday run, use this 2026–2027 calendar to find races throughout Orange County. Race dates, courses and locations can change, so check the linked race organizer before registering or attending.Races are listed in calendar order from January through the December holiday season, including Turkey Trots and holiday runs, and races without a confirmed 2027 date are marked TBA. Jump to: Obstacle & Themed Runs | Virtual Races

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Obstacle, Mud & Themed Runs

Bubble Run - Racers make their way through a family-friendly 5K course while they're showered with foam, and passing four colorful bubble cannon stations. Join the bubblefest at the after party for more bubbles!

The Color Run - Just like Color Vibe, runners get splashed with color during and after the race. There's an after race Finish Festival with music, dancing, photo ops, activity booths, vendors, and more.

Foam Glow - These after-dark family friendly events splash foam and color over races along the 5K course. End the race with activities, music and dancing for a fun after party. Foam Glow is a go-at-your-own-pace event, not a competitive race.

Muddy Dash - A family friendly mud run with obstacles like walls, ropes, monkey bars, and plenty of mud. Held at Oak Canyon Park, you'll run, walk, crawl, wade, slip, and slide through the course with Mud Experts leading the way. This is a fun run and not a timed race. Costumes are welcome. Must be 7 or older to participate.

Mud Girl Run - Aimed at women, the Mud Girl Run is a three mile race with obstacles and fun. There are over 17 obstacles to challenge your physical strength including mud, slides, climbing, agility courses, water, and more.

Spartan Races - Spartan Races are some of the most challenging obstacle races, but they are totally worth it for those who enjoy a challenge. There are different levels of challenges depending on the race you sign up for. The Stadion is one of the most common - it is a 5K with 20 obstacles including the gauntlet, air bike, rolling mud, and more.

Virtual Races

Virtual races and app-based challenges let participants complete a chosen distance on their own schedule and location. Availability varies by organizer, but these resources can help you find virtual challenges as well as additional in-person races:

Active - Find runs, biking events, and activities for the whole family including virtual races. Plus keep an eye out for in-person activities as they are updated.

Run Guides - Find local (and not-so-local) virtual runs to join, and get the scoop on in-person races as they are added.

The Conqueror Virtual Challenges - Choose a challenge and log your progress through the app or automatically track with your smartwatch. Earn medals, join teams, and connect with other racers in the Conqueror community.

Orange County Race FAQs

What 5Ks are coming up in Orange County?

Orange County has 5Ks and other races throughout the year. Use the calendar above for upcoming dates and always confirm details with the linked race organizer before registering.

Are there free 5Ks in Orange County?

Yes. Some community events are free, including recurring parkrun events. Registration requirements vary by organizer.

What Orange County Turkey Trots are held around Thanksgiving?

Orange County hosts numerous November Turkey Trots, including races in Dana Point, Irvine, Tustin, Rancho Mission Viejo, Huntington Beach, Anaheim and Seal Beach. See the Turkey Trot entries in the calendar for current dates.

Are there kid-friendly fun runs in Orange County?

Yes. Many Orange County races offer kids runs, family walks or noncompetitive distances. Examples vary throughout the year, so check each organizer for age requirements and course options.

What are some of the biggest Orange County races?

Major annual events include the OC Marathon, Surf City Marathon and Dana Point Turkey Trot, along with numerous city races, trail runs and themed events.

Are there trail races in Orange County?

Yes. The calendar includes trail races in locations such as Crystal Cove State Park, Cleveland National Forest, Caspers Wilderness Park, O'Neill Regional Park and other Orange County open-space areas.

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