Orange County hosts family fun runs, Turkey Trots, 5Ks and full marathons all year long. Whether you’re looking for a challenge, like the OC Marathon, or a fun way to get kids excited about fitness, like the annual Dino Dash, we’ve got a list of events for every season. Find your next race today.
More Than Just A Race
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!
Color Vibe 5K – Color Vibe races are fun, family friendly events where you’ll be splashed with vibrant, colorful paint. It is 100% safe, edible, non-toxic, and biodegradable. Paint chalk colors include blue, yellow, pink, purple, and green. Theses run/walk events include DJs and music, and a dance party post-race.
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
Many runs have been modified to virtual participation. Racers can register to participate in the event and you choose to complete your distance as a solo run at the location and time of your preference to maintain social distance guidelines and reduce crowding/gathering. Here are a few sites that are hosting virtual races and app-based virtual run challenge programs:
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.
Pro Football Hall of Fame Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K (May 5-7,2023)
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.
RunDisney: Walt Disney World Virtual Marathon
See A List Of The Best Marathons In California
January
Irvine Half Marathon & 5K
Woodbridge Village to Mike Ward Park
Postponed
The Southern California Half Marathon has become the Irvine Half Marathon. This year’s event starts at Woodbridge Village and ends at Mike Ward Park. The Half begins at 8:00 and the 5K starts at 8:15. All participants will receive tech shirts, medals, race photos, complementary admission to the Kona Brewing Finish Line Festival, free tracking, and free beer. The Finish Line Festival is a post-race event with food, music, cold beer, and fun.
Aliso Viejo Brave Race 5K & 1K Fun Run
Aliso Niguel High School
28000 Wolverine Way, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
Sunday, January 29, 2023
Run for a cause. The Brave race benefits The Joyful Child Foundation, established in memory of Samantha Runnion, a five-year old girl who was abducted from her home in Stanton and murdered. The Joyful Child Foundation’s BRAVE initiative is “dedicated to preventing crimes against children through programs that educate, empower, and unite families and communities.” Participants in the Brave Race will help raise funds for much needed safety education programs to help keep children in our communities safe. The race takes place on a flat track, medals for participants, T-shirts, refreshments, on-course entertainment, and an expo.
February
Muddy Dash
Oak Canyon Park
5305 Santiago Canyon Road, Silverado
8:00AM Race Start
February 4, 2023
The Muddy Dash 5K is open to participants ages 7 and up and includes a medal and racer bib, t-shirt, and access to the 5K course with more than 15 obstacles. You WILL get dirty. There will also be a post-race celebration festival.
Surf City Marathon, Half Marathon, & 5K
Huntington State Beach
21291 Pacific Coast Highway Huntington Beach, CA 92648
February 5, 2023
The popular Surf City Marathon offers a variety of distances for runners of all skill levels including a full and half marathon, 5K, and the 1 mile Beach Run. Racers will enjoy the view on the oceanfront course and the event includes surfboard medals for all finishes, free shirts, free beer garden, live entertainment, and free shuttle service. The 2018 race brought 17,000 participants to Huntington Beach for this annual event.
SuperBowl 5K/Half Crazy Half Marathon
Jeffrey Trails East of Spectrum Montessori of Woodbury
155 Visions, Irvine, CA 92620
February 11, 2023
Football themed race earns you a shirt and bling for Superbowl Sunday, and an excuse to eat all the BBQ you want on Superbowl Sunday.
Start and Finish at Jeffrey Trail Middle School: 155 Visions, Irvine, CA US 92620
5K course runs south of Jeffrey Trail Middle School. Half marathon course runs south and north on Jeffrey Trails…a beautifully landscaped paved path made for running.
Trail Love 5K & 10K
Irvine Regional Park
1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange, CA 92869
February 11, 2023
Celebrate Valentines Day by showing your trail love at this 5K & 10K. The race course is mapped out on the trails of Irvine Regional Park with a few hills, fun single tracks, and views of beautiful Orange County. Special awards will be given to the top three overall winners in the 5K and 10K races, and all participants will receive custom race medals, a t-shirt, raffle entry, and post-race refreshments.
Caspers Trail Races
Caspers Wilderness Park – Old Corral Day Use Area
33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Saturday, February 11, 2023
Caspers Trail Races include 10k, half marathon, and 30k distances. Caspers Wilderness Park offers beautiful trails and natural scenery throughout the area. There are multiple aid stations with a variety of snacks, GU, and electrolytes, plus ice if it’s hot.
Hearts & Heroes 5K
Grace OC
8095 E. Crystal Dr. Anaheim CA 92807
Saturday, February 18, 2023
Join the race at Grace OC. Racers will run the course route from Grace to Yorba Regional Park and Santa Ana Trail and return to the finish line at Grace OC. A pancake breakfast is included with registration and will take place after the race. Proceeds from the Hearts & Heroes 5K will benefit local foster children and funds will be used to host birthday parties for these children who are with a local Orange County children’s home. Many of these kids have never had a birthday party of their own, and this is a great opportunity to give them a joyful experience.
Oso Fit 5K Fun Run & Community Health Fair
Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center
24932 Veterans Way, Mission Viejo
February 25, 2023
7:30AM – 12:00PM
The Oso Fit event promotes health and wellness while raising money for Mission Viejo non-profit organizations. The Community Health fair showcases over 60 vendors in the wellness industry to inspire you to get fit! The event features a quarter- and half-mile Kids Walk/Run for children of all abilities.
March
SOCAL River Marathon
Santa Ana River Trail
21601 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92646
March 2, 2024
The SOCAL River Marathon features four distance races run along the Santa Ana River Trail from Yorba Linda to Huntington Beach State Park. The course is flat and paved. Racers can choose from a marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K.
Shamrock Run 5K/10K
San Clemente Pier & Beach Trail
Saturday, March 4, 2023
Enjoy a beachfront race in beautiful San Clemente along the historic pier and surrounding beach trails. Every racer will get a themed t-shirt, and after the race there will be shamrock shakes, activities, and a scavenger hunt for families to participate in at local downtown businesses.
Oak Canyon Park
Santiago Canyon Road and Blue Diamond Haul Road
March 4, 2023
Bubble Run registration includes a finishers medal, t-shirt, temporary tattoo, race bib, race entry and a post race celebration. There are three heats to register for. This 5K course for all ages features bubbles. Lots of bubbles.
Catalina Island Marathon, 5K, 10K
Avalon, Catalina Island
Saturday, March 11, 2023
The Catalina Island race event features some of the best racing in the Southern California area. High-level competitors can take part in the race of their chosen distance and enjoy the beauty of the island.
La Habra Races
La Habra Marketplace
1801 W. Imperial Highway, La Habra
Saturday, March 11, 2023
La Habra Races feature a 50 yard diaper dash for kids ages 3-5, a 1K kiddy run for ages 6-9, and a 5K run/walk for all ages. Medals will be awarded to the top 3 male and female racers, and kids who participate in the diaper dash and kiddy run will receive free meal coupons. Registered participants will get a goodie bag and entry to the pop-up farmers market, plus there will be vendors and a kids area.
The Rodeo Run 5k/10k
Huntington Beach (Beach Blvd & PCH)
21579 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Saturday, March 11, 2023
7:30 – 10:00 am
Pony up for the Rodeo Run featuring live country music on the course, including a line-dance-warmup session. Celebrate all things country western with learn to rope and learn to ride stations, two-step lessons, and a post-race BBQ. Finishers receive custom medals that double as a belt buckle. 5K /10K age division awards and top three overall trophies, plus age division medals. RFID CHIP TIMED by Itz About Time. Proceeds benefit Miss Pam’s Ranch.
Spirit Run
Fashion Island, Newport Beach
March 12, 2023
The Fashion Island Spirit Run is a community tradition, now in its 39th year. The family-friendly event includes options for all ages, skill levels, and abilities and dogs are welcome to participate. Race Day includes a youth, fitness and dog expo featuring food trucks, entertainment, heath and fitness booths, sports activities, and more. Proceeds benefit youth programs in the community that support fitness and education.
Run Seal Beach
March 25, 2023
Details To Be Announced
The 2023 Event will include a 5K walk, 5K run, 10K run, and a kids 1K fun run. Additional details to be announced.
Bubble Run
OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, CA
March 25, 2023
Bubble Run registration includes a finishers medal, t-shirt, temporary tattoo, race bib, race entry and a post race celebration. There are multiple heats starting throughout the morning. This 5K course for all ages features bubbles. Lots of bubbles.
Reaching for the Cure Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, Kids Run
Irvine Valley College
5500 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, CA 92618
March 26, 2023
Voted #1 race in Orange County, the Reaching for the Cure event honors those affected by pediatric cancer. Event participants will receive race shirts and medals, and half marathon racers will receive a commemorative hat. The event includes a finish line festival, beer garden, a free kid zone with rides, a petting zoo, obstacle courses, bounce houses and more.
More March Races
- REACH Foundation Shamrock ‘n Run (Anaheim) – Sunday, March 17, 2024
April
El Vaquero 5K (Rancho Track)
Mile Square Park
16801 Euclid Street, Fountain Valley, CA 92708
April 1, 2023
The El Vaquero 5k is the annual fundraiser for Rancho Alamitos Track Boosters. Held at Mile Square Park, the flat, paved course is ideal for racers of all skill levels. Now in it’s 8th year, proceeds from the race benefit the high school track team.
Into the Wild Black Star Canyon 9K
Black Star Canyon
Black Star Canyon Road, Silverado, CA 92676
April 1, 2023
One of Orange County’s geological gems, Black Star Canyon is protected wildland only open to the public on special access days. Participants can take in the majestic scenery of the sandstone cliffs and spectacular wildlife as they race this figure eight course through sage scrub and chaparral habitats on single track trails and fire roads. Racers receive medals, shirts, and post-race refreshments.
Rabbit Run 5k Run/Walk & OC Challenge 5k Run
Jeffrey Trail Middle School
155 Visions, Irvine, CA 92620
April 8, 2023
OC CHALLENGE 5K: Age Division awards. 3 deep. 5 year age spans Overall Masters Male/ Female trophy.
Rabbit Run 5k: This is a 3.1 mile Easter egg hunt with RABBIT RUN 5k Finisher medals. Perfect to jog, run, stroll, and enjoy the Easter prizes to collect along the way.
Reebok Ragnar Road SoCal
Huntington Beach to Silver Strand Beach
April 14-15, 2023
In the Reebok Ragnar Road SoCal race, teams of twelve complete a 200-mile adventure through Orange County, La Jolla, Encinitas, and Cardiff-by-the-Sea. Ocean views, night running, and the best post-race party in racing. So gather your friends and get ready for the most epic race of the year.
Foam Glow 5K
OC Fair & Event Center
88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa
Postponed
Light up the night at the Anaheim Foam Glow 5K. Hit the starting line in a white t-shirt and race through color-designated Foam Glow Zones. Music and blacklights keep the energy up as participants become moving works of art. Join the pre- and post-race party to for the ultimate Foam Glow experience. Participants will receive an augmented reality finisher medal.
Superhero 5K Run/Walk Health & Safety Expo
Mason Regional Park
18712 University Drive, Irvine, CA 92612
Saturday, April 15, 2023
Dress up as your favorite superhero and join the 5K. This family event includes a health and safety expo from 7 am to 11 am and features food, entertainment, and fundraising opportunities. Participants receive shirts and medals and the first 500 racers to preregister receive a goody bag.
Foam Glow Irvine
Oak Canyon Park
Santiago Canyon and Blue Diamond Haul Road
April 22, 2023
6PM – 10PM
Foam Glow racers will run the 5K course through designated color zones that glow in the dark under high intensity black lights. After the run, join the Foam Glow Afterparty for fun, music, and festivities.
Fun Run & Fit Fest
Santa Ana Stadium
602 N Flower St., Santa Ana, CA 92703
April 22, 2023
Come out for a kid run, 5K or 10K run/walk, and fit fest event featuring a resource fair with local health and wellness organizations.
John Wayne Grit Series 50K, 25K & 5K
Crystal Cove State Park, Newport Coast
8471 N Coast Highway
April 22, 2023
This event by the John Wayne Cancer Foundation features stunning course hill climbs and ocean views from dirt roads and single track trails. Three full aid stations and two water stations will keep you fueled along the way. The starting line is located at Crystal Cove’s lower parking lot.
Rock It El Moro Canyon
El Moro Canyon
Crystal Cove State Park
8471 North Coast Highway, Laguna Beach CA 92652
2023 TBA
Rock It El Moro Canyon offers a 6K and a 10 Mile with ocean views and rolling hills with tough climbs. Runners, hikers, and walkers are all welcome. All participants receive a race t-shirt and medal, photos, entry in a raffle, and post-race nutrition. RFID/Chip Timing. Cups are not provided on the course. Please bring your own refillable water bottle to refresh at the aid stations. There will be four stations on the 10 mile course and two stations for the 6K. Cash prizes are awarded to the top three men and women in the 10 Miler Race.
Peters Canyon Earth Day 10K
Peter’s Canyon Regional Park
8548 E. Canyon View Ave., Orange, CA 92869
2023 TBA
The Peter’s Canyon Earth Day 10K is an evening race on the trails of Peters Canyon Regional Park. The race course is great for all levels with a variety of challenging elements. All participants will receive a medal, a T-shirt, and post-race snacks. Parking is off-site and available a half mile away at Chapman Hills Elementary School and the adjacent cul-de-sac parking lot. Runners must NOT park in residential areas. Cars parked in the residential area will be ticketed.
PanCan PurpleStride Orange County Walk
Angel Stadium of Anaheim
2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim
April 29, 2023
8:00 AM
Join 60 other communities throughout the Nation as we all walk together to end pancreatic cancer. The PanCAN PurpleStride Orange County will occur at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Join us for this 1.7-mile walk around and through Angel Stadium to bring awareness to pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer has a 5-year relative survival rate of only 11% and your participation will help increase that number! Registration is FREE! Join us at: purplestride.org/oc
Tustin Hangar Half Marathon, 5K & 10K
The District at Tustin Legacy
2023 TBA
The only chance you’ll have to run inside the towering 17-story Tustin Hangars, as part of the race course participants will run from one end of the hangar and back – a distance of three football fields in length.
More April Races
- Running is for the Birds (Huntington Beach) – April 27, 2024
May
Cinco De Miles 5k/10K Run Walk
Bolsa Chica State Beach (Corner of Warner Blvd and PCH)
17243 Pacific Coast Highway
Saturday, May 6, 2023
Come celebrate Cinco De Mayo with 5K and 10K runs-runs. Chips and salsa available at the race, music on the course, and a LIVE warmup session.
Into the Wild Limestone Canyon
Limestone Canyon
Augustine Staging Area
5524 Santiago Canyon Rd., Silverado, CA
May 6, 2023
This event is hosting a 12K and 25K that brings the exciting world of trail racing to participants. This race is designed for experienced trail runners all the way to advanced street racers. Enjoy this race while taking in the beautiful scenery of Limestone Canyon as you pass under canopies of oak trees, pass by seasonal streams, and venture into the Sinks, a prized geological formation in OC. From the ridgetop, racers will be rewarded with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Irvine Lake, Cleveland National Forest, and the surrounding area.
OC Marathon & Half Marathon
May 7, 2023
OC Fair & Event Center – 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa
Fashion Island – 401 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach
The OC Marathon and half marathon are scheduled for November for in-person racing and virtual racing. This year, multiple locations will help eliminate overcrowding. Registration is open now. See parking, starting line, and schedule information for the races here.
O’Neill Park Trail Races
O’Neill Regional Park
30892 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon CA 92679
Saturday, May 20, 2023
O’Neill Park Trail Races include 10k, half marathon, 30k, and 50k distances. O’Neill Regional Park offers 4500 acres of beautiful trails and scenery to enjoy during your race through Trabuco and Live Oak Canyons. Aid stations will be well stocked with a variety of snacks, GU, and electrolytes.
SJC Community Supporters Run
Cook La Novia Park
27512 Calle Arroyo, SJC
May 27, 2023
This event includes 1K, 3K, and 5K running courses and money raised supports local non-profit youth organizations. Register until race day at 7AM.
Anaheim Semper 5K & 10K Run
Riverdale Park
4545 Riverdale Avenue, Anaheim, CA 92807
2023 TBA
This family friendly race in beautiful Anaheim Hills is a run/walk event for people of all ages and abilities. Participants will receive custom medals featuring the M1 Abrams Tank. Racers who complete the 5 year series receive special commemorative medals. The event includes a 5K and 10K race, a Kids Run for ages 9 and under, a DJ with music, and a finish line expo. All racers will receive medals and t-shirts.
Laguna Hills Memorial Day Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, Virtual & Kids Run
Begins at Saddleback Memorial Medical Center on Calle De Louisa
Ends at Laguna Hills Community Center at 25555 Alicia Pkwy
May 29, 2023
The annual Laguna Hills Memorial Day races are perfect for participants of all experience levels, with a variety of lengths and difficulty levels, plus a half mile kids race and a 50-yard Diaper Dash. The Memorial Day races benefit two programs. The first is the Darkhorse Battalion. According to the website, “The City of Laguna Hills adopted the 3/5, or 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, of the 1st Marine Division.” The infantry is based in Camp Pendleton and the city plans to donate $3 per race participant. Additionally, the city encourages viewers and participants to bring non-perishable and canned goods to support the food drive that benefits seniors, low-income families, and others in need.
More May Races
- Great Donut Run / Walk 5k – Sun May 21, 2023
June
Whiting Ranch Trail Race
Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park
27901 Glenn Ranch Road, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92679
Saturday, June 3, 2023
Explore Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park on foot in this trail race series with 10K, half marathon, and 30K distances. Whiting Ranch races include a few steep climbs, but the views are a great payoff. Each aid station will offer sweet and salty snacks, PB&J’s, fresh fruit, GU, and Fluid Electrolyte, plus the event features post-race snacks.
SoCal’s Pirates 5K/10K Run/Walk
Bolsa Chica State Beach
17243 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA
Saturday, June 17, 2023
Choose staggered start times
The in-person pirate-themed race event is a flat paved course. Participants will receive a pirate themed t-shirt, custom race bib. Awards will be given to the best dressed so put on your best pirate costume and join the run.
More June Races
- Corona del Mar Scenic 5K – Jun 3, 2023 – Jun 4, 2023
- Need for Speed Top Gun – 5K, 10K, 15K and Half Marathon (Huntington Beach) – Sun June 11, 2023
- Nixon 5K for Title IX (Yorba Linda) – Sat – Jun 24, 2023
July
Angels 5K
Angel Stadium of Anaheim
2000 East Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA, 92806
Saturday, July 1, 2023
The Angels 5K will feature enhanced hygiene, screening and education, minimizing touchpoints, and density reduction. All registered racers will receive a commemorative race shirt, finishers medal, and a swag bag with goodies from race sponsors.
Canyon High School – 220 S Imperial Hwy, Anaheim, CA 92807
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Test your endurance in the Anaheim Hills Firecracker 5K/10K, or bring the stroller and the dog, and take your time.
Red, White & Blue 5K + Fun Run
Irvine Valley College
5500 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, CA, 92618
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
Staggered starts from 6:30 am – 8:45 am
A patriotic race that represents your freedom. All participants will receive a race t-shirt and a finisher medal. The Fun Run is 1 mile of camaraderie, and individuals participating in the 5K race can walk, run or jog. Options for this race are in-person, virtual, fun run, diaper dash, and zero K.
El Toro Chargers 4th of July 5K
Lake Forest Drive and Serrano Road
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
7:30AM
Racers will take to the streets of Lake Forest prior to the annual 4th of July Parade. Race proceeds benefit El Toro High School.
Surf City Run 5K
2000 Main Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92646
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
An event the whole family can enjoy! Come participate in the Surf City Run 5K. The 2022 event includes staggered start times
La Palma Fitness Run for Fun
7821 Walker Street, La Palma, CA 90623
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
A healthy and fun way to celebrate the fun July festivities! This running event is proud to give a small town/home sense of community feel that you will be able to enjoy with your friends and families. This race is help promote focusing on health and wellness while participating in a running, walking or strolling activity.
Founder’s Park, 28275 Avendale Blvd, Ladera Ranch CA 92694
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
A Ladera Ranch tradition – The Freedom Run on the Ranch will hold a 1k, 5k, and 10k run.
YMCA Run In The Parks 5K & Kids Race
Crown Valley Park – 29751 Crown Valley Pkwy. Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Tuesday, July 4, 2023
The Annual Laguna Niguel Family YMCA Run in the Parks benefits the YMCA scholarship fund.
The Harding Hustle
Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary in Modjeska Canyon
190 Definition, Foothill Ranch, CA
July 29, 2023
The Harding Hustle is a fun and challenging trail race with significant elevation gain and loss. The race is entirely on single track trail and fire roads. This is a warm weather run, so plan accordingly!
San Clemente Ocean Festival
615 Avenida Victoria
San Clemente, CA 92674
Cancelled for 2023
An ocean of events to pick from! Come spend the day at the beach and have some fun in the sun. Races vary from a 5K Beach Run, Open Ocean Paddle (about 5.5 mile course), Biathlon (1K Swim/5k Run), a Splash & Dash Relay, Dolphin Dash for kids 12 and under and much more! See event website for more details.
More July Races
- Ralph J. Redington 5K/10K Run and Kids Run – Tue July 4, 2023
August
The OC Fair Fun Run 5K
88 Fair Dr Costa Mesa, California
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
August 6, 2023
A fun run for the whole family to enjoy! The OC Fun Run coincides with the OC fair! Come and attend this event for games, prizes and lots of fun!
Rummage Run 5K/10K
Jeffery Trail Middle School
155 Visions, Irvine
August 19, 2023
The purpose of the Rummage Run is to help fund sending extra shirts and medals to Africa.
More August Races
- Hotter than Hades Hustle – 5K, 10K, 15K and Half Marathon – Sun – Aug 20, 2023
September
That’s No Moon Trail Race
Blackstar Canyon
13333 Black Star Canyon Road, Silverado, CA 92676
September 23, 2023
That’s No Moon is a challenging trail race at Black Star Canyon that includes difficult climbs on technical, single track trails. There are three distances for this one: 50 miles, 50K, and 30K. There is over 4000 feet elevation gain and loss in this race with a significant amount of time spent heading uphill. You’ll pass many of the area landmarks including Black Star Falls, Beeks Place, Four Corners, and the Harding Truck Trail.
Angel Stadium of Anaheim Spartan Stadion Event Weekend
Angel Stadium of Anaheim
2000 East Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA, 92806
September 23, 2023
Tackle an epic and challenging 5K with 20 obstacles inside Angel Stadium. Adults can sign up for the Stadion event, and kids who want to conquer a course of their own can sign up for the 1/2 to 1-mile course, also with obstacles.
TIKI Beach 5K/10K Run
Sunday, September 24, 2023
Staggered start times
Bolsa Chica State Beach – Lot 25 (Warner and PCH)
17243 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA, 92649
A run with a touch of paradise feel! During the event, enjoy Polynesian music, tiki lamps, and professionally chipped timed event with mile markers. There is also a kids dash or 1 mile fun run and a virtual option. Pancakes will be served from 7:15 – 9:30 AM.
Race Los Al
Florista, Reagan, and Pine Streets
Saturday, September 16, 2023
Race in a 5k or 10k during the day or participate in the glow in the dark run and glide in the eveningand attend the Los Al street fair after.
Hyundai Hope On Wheels 5K & Color Run
Fountain Valley Sports Park
16400 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley
2023 TBA
The annual Hyundai 5K and Color run will be held at the Fountain Valley Sports Park and benefits Hope on Wheels, a program to help fight childhood cancer.
Annual Orange County 5K Walk/Run
Florence Joyner Olympiad Park
22760 Olympiad Road, Mission Viejo
2023 TBA
Hosted by the Alliance to Cure Cavernous Malformation, this annual event will include a buffet breakfast, raffle, silent auction, and a 1-mile kids bubble fun run.
More September Races
- BOOK IT!: Racing for Reading for Hospitalized Kids (Irvine) – Monday, September 4, 2023
- Pacific Coast Triathlon (Laguna Beach) – Sunday, September 17, 2023
- Huntington Beach Surf City 10 – September 17, 2023 – September 18, 2023
October
Cypress Run
Saturday, October 7, 2023
Cypress Civic Center
5275 Orange Ave, Cypress, CA
7AM Sharp – 10K
7:30AM – 5K run and 5K walk
The Cypress Run includes a 5K & 10K run and a 5K walk. Participants will receive performance shirts and medals, plus popsicles at the finish line. Cash prize is available for the 10K race.
Social Club 5K Walk/Run
BreweryX
3191 E. La Palma Ave, Anaheim
2023 TBA
Race begins at 9:30AM
The Main Street Marauders Run/Social Club & Elev8 Performance presents the inaugural Social Club 5K benefitting the Second Harvest Food Bank. Donation containers for non-perishable foods will be available to collect and will be donated after the event. Bring the kids, the dogs, and have some fun.
UCI Anti-Cancer Challenge 5K/10K Run/Walk or Ride
October 7, 2023
UCI’s Aldrich Park
The UCI Anti-cancer challenge raises awareness and funds for cancer research and funds raised goes towards pilot studies and early phase clinical trials. In addition to the 5K/10K run/walk, there is an option to run distances of 14, 35, 60, and 100 miles.
Run4Sharks & Ocean Health Fair 5K/1 Mile Fun Run
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort
1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, CA
October 7, 2023
The 1-Mile and 5K closed course race is a fun community event to raise awareness for sharks and a healthy ocean. Racers who dress up in their best ocean animal or shark costume will be entered to win a prize. All participants will receive a medal.
Fit Fall Halloween Harvest 5K/10K
October 21, 2023
5K 10K Start: 8:30 am
Kid’s Dash Start 8 am & 8:05 am
Bolsa Chica State Beach
17851 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
The Halloween Harvest 5K/10K race is part race, part celebration for the whole family. Racers are invited to come wearing wigs or full costumes. The event will include Halloween treats, carnival games, and live music to enjoy. There are multiple course lengths including the 5K and 10K, the half mile youth run, and the Pumpkin Dash. Visit the website for more information on race day events and entry fees.
Monster Dash 5K – San Clemente
Community Center
100 N. Calle Seville, San Clemente
October 2023 TBA
The 1st Annual Monster Dash includes a fun run, costume contest, and tricks and treats for all ages. Preregistration required.
More October Races
- Halloween Havoc – 5K, 10K, 15K and Half Marathon (Fountain Valley) – Saturday, October 28, 2023
November
Annual Dino Dash
Tustin Public Schools Foundation
The Market Place
2771 El Camino Real, Tustin, CA 92780
November 5, 2023
Guests of all ages and abilities are invited to participate in the Tustin Public Schools Foundation’s annual 2K, 5K and 10K run/walk, half marathon, or 5K, 15K and 50K bike tours.
Top finishers of the 5k, 10k and half marathon in each age division receive an official Dino Dash trophy. Second and third-place finishers will receive a medal. All half-marathon finishers will receive the Jurassic size medal.
The Dino Dash also features a free family expo with interactive activities, school fundraising booths, local exhibitors, and more.
Racers unable to make it to the event may participate and earn legacy status through the Virtual Dino Dash half marathon, which can be completed at the participants’ convenience on the course of their choosing.
Cal Tri Newport Dunes
Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina
1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
November 5, 2023
The Cal Tri Newport Dunes event features multiple event options including 7 Olympic distance events, 7 sprint distance events, and two youth events. Prices vary by event.
Bubble Run Irvine
Oak Canyon Park
Santiago Canyon Road and Blue Diamond Haul Road
November 11, 2023
Bubble Run registration includes a finishers medal, t-shirt, temporary tattoo, race bib, race entry and a post race celebration. There are three heats to register for. This 5K course for all ages features bubbles. Lots of bubbles.
Terrain Race
Oak Canyon Park
5305 Santiago Canyon Road, Silverado CA
November 18, 2023
Conquer a 5K with 15+ obstacles in the Terrain Race. Obstacles include mud, walls, ropes, monkey bars, and more, all worked in to the Oak Canyon terrain. Plus, after the race, enjoy the vendor village, delicious food and drinks, music, competitions, and more. Kids 7 and up are welcome to join the 5K course. There is a special MiniMonkey Course for ages 2-10, which is a half-mile modified version of the adult course. All participants will receive a medal.
Seal Beach Turkey Trot
Main Street, Seal Beach
2023 TBA
The Seal Beach Turkey Trot includes a 1K Don’t Be A Turkey Trot, a 5K and a 10K. This is a run/walk event that starts and ends on Main Street. The Seal Beach Turkey Trot partners with Grateful Hearts and Project SEEK to donate over 300 holiday meals to community families in need and to help raise funds for local schools.
Elf Yourself 5K
Lake Forest Sports Park
28000 Rancho Parkway, Lake Forest
2023 TBA
The annual charity event includes the 5K, a kids zone with games and activities, Candy Cane Lane with photo booth and pet costume contest, and a Vendor Village and Expo featuring food, a DJ, raffles, and more.
Thanksgiving Turkey Trot 5K & Fun Run
2610 E Katella Ave., Anaheim, CA 92806
November 19, 2023
The Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot and Fun Run is fun for the whole family. The race starts and finishes on the Santa Ana River Trail near JT Schmid’s, south of the Honda Center. All racers will receive a medal. Aid stations will be available, and awards will be handed out. All 5K racers will receive a t-shirt. There will be Pilgrim Themed entertainment and Gobbles the character turkey will be at the selfie booth for fun photo ops.
Dana Point Turkey Trot
Dana Point Harbor
November 2023 TBA
10k, 5K, 15K races, and kids 1-Mile Gobble Wobble
The annual Dana Point Turkey Trot has been a community tradition for over 40 years. Join in the fun and enjoy the views on the flat course through Dana Point Harbor. The event also includes a costume contest and a health and wellness expo. The one mile kid’s Gobble Wobble is open to kids ages 4-12.
OC Turkey Trot 5K – Irvine
Irvine Valley College
5500 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine, CA 92618
November 23, 2023
The OC Turkey Trot 5K is held at Irvine Valley College. Bring the whole family for a fun way to kick off Thanksgiving Day. There will be a 1-mile Turkey Dash and a Gobble Wobble for kids 2 and under. Turkey Trot medals are given to all race participants. Work up your appetite for your Thanksgiving celebration and earn that extra piece of pie at the Irvine Valley College Turkey Trot.
Turkey Trot OC
OC Rescue Mission Village Of Hope
1 Hope Drive, Tustin
November 2023 TBA
The Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot raises money for the OC Rescue Mission to provide meals for the hungry and homeless. The 5K flat course starts and ends at the Village of Hope and passes the Peace Officers’ Memorial and the Tustin Marine Base and Hangars. Pets are allowed, strollers are welcome, and costumes are encouraged.
Turkey Trot On The Ranch
Rancho Mission Viejo
28811 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano
November 2023 TBA
The Turkey Trot On The Ranch includes a 5K and a Little Gobbler’s 1K. Proceeds from the race support the Reserve at Rancho Mission Viejo, a nature reserve that provides school programs, recreational programs, on-site education and more, allowing hands-on learning in a natural environment.
Turkey Wobble Huntington Beach
21599 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach
Corner of PCH and Beach Blvd.
November 2023 TBA
There are 3 distances to choose from, 1K, 5K, and 10K. Routes are beach-front on the flat, paved, multi-use trail and travels by the Huntington Beach Pier, past the Surf Museum, and through downtown Huntington Beach. This is an all ages event and strollers are welcome.
More November Races
- Anaheim Turkey Trot 5K/10K & Fun Run – Sunday, November 19, 2023
- Plymouth Rock n Run (Anaheim) – Thursday, November 23, 2023
- Pumpkin Palooza – 5K, 10K, 15K and Half Marathon (Fountain Valley) – Sunday November 26, 2023
December
Into The Wild OC Trail Run – 28K
December 2, 2023
Fremont Canyon
Experience a run in one of OC’s most picturesque locations with granite rock formations, caves, canyons, and more. Fremont Peak comes in at 2,376 feet. You’ll have amazing views and surroundings during the entire run.
Crystal Cove Trail Run
Crystal Cove State Park, El Moro
8471 N. Coast Highway, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Saturday, December 16, 2023
The Crystal Cove Trail Run offers challenging climbs and stunning views on backcountry trails just minutes from the Pacific Ocean. The race is entirely on fire roads and single track trails. Distances include 6k and 15k for this race. 15k racers will also take on the Rock Garden, Elevator, and The Wall, so be ready for a challenge. This event includes a post race breakfast and beer garden.
Family Day 5k
Irvine Regional Park
1 Irvine Park Rd., Orange, CA 92869
2023 TBA
The 5K is called “Family Day 5K” and is a fundraising event for the nonprofit, Family Outdoors. It is an event meant to inform every participant of our cause, who we are, and what we do for California’s low-income families.
Run For A Claus
2023 TBA
University of California, Irvine
In person and virtual options are available. There will be a kids 1-mile run and a 5K, and a costume contest. Every runner will receive festive goods including a Santa medal, Santa Hat, Santa Beard, and Christmas socks.
HB Resolution Run
December 2023 TBA
Huntington Beach State Beach
Magnolia and Pacific Coast Highway
1-mile race starts at 8AM
5K starts at 8:30AM
The Resolution Run supports the McKenna Claire Foundation and programs for the local community and schools. Prizes are awarded for the first three finishers in the 1-mile kids run and the first three male and female finishers in the 5K. medals are awarded in multiple age divisions.
Santa Clause with a Cause 5K/10K
Irvine Valley College
5500 Irvine Center Drive, Lot 5
December 2023 TBA
8:30 a.m. start time
The Santa Clause for a Cause event is a jolly race and racers can come in Santa suits or Ugly Sweaters. Proceeds from this event will go towards giving gifts to people in need. Participants at the event will enjoy Christmas carolers, a selfie booth with a blow up Santa, and a real Santa with candy canes. All participants will get to keep a Santa suit or a custom race t-shirt that they can wear during the event. All racers will receive a Santa finisher medal.
December 2023 TBA
Meet up location is right outside Wursthaus at 4th & French.
6 PM Start
Keep Running Santa Ana is hosting a Santa Run & Bar Crawl 🎅🏽 Dress up as Santa Claus for their weekly run then visit participating after for a drink special.
Holiday Fun Run
Bolsa Chica State Beach Bike Path
PCH and Warner
Sunday, December 2023 TBA
The Holiday Fun Run hosted by A Better World Running takes place at Bolsa Chica State Beach in Huntington Beach on an open course on the paved bike path. Racers can choose to participate in the 5k, 10k, 15k, or half marathon. The informal event usually hosts approximately 100 to 150 runners. Drinking fountains and restrooms are available along the beach path and an aid station is set up at 4.36 miles. The 5K is a single out and back loop, 10K is two out and back loops, 15K is three out and back loops. Drinks and snacks will be provided at the aid stations.
Run in the New Year – Huntington Beach
Bolsa Chica State Beach
17851 Pacific Coast Hwy., Huntington Beach, CA 92648
December 31, 2023
The Run In the New Year event features a 5K, 10K, and half marathon, plus a virtual option. The race will take place at Bolsa Chica State Beach on a flat, paved bike trail just steps from the ocean. Racers will receive t-shirts and medals. Kids are welcome to participate in the event. Kids on bikes and trikes must wear pads and helmets, and families with strollers must line up in the bike/stroller section for the race.
More December Races
- HB Resolution Run, 5K, Puppy Paws 5K Run/Walk & 1 Mile Fun Run – December 10th, 2023
- Twas the Night Before- 5K, 10K, 15K and Half Marathon – Sunday, December 24, 2023
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Heidi Deal is the author of the Newcomers Handbook to Living In Los Angeles & Orange County, and a children’s book author specializing in history and human rights.