Ready to start the year on the right foot? Here's a list of 2026 family fun runs and 5K running and walking events in San Diego County that the whole family can participate in. Get outside and have fun!
Fun Runs and 5Ks in January
Port of San Diego Game Day Holiday Bowl 5K Walk/Run. January 2, 2026
Kick off game day with a walk or run along San Diego’s beautiful harbor front. After the race, particpants can watch the remainder of the Holiday Bowl Parade, featuring colorful floats, bands and huge inflatable characters. All participants receive a finisher's medal. 9:45 am. $45. Harbor & Ash, downtown San Diego. Register: www.holidaybowl.com
Sunrise Marathon 5K - January 3, 2026
Get ready to rise and shine in beautiful San Diego! This exhilarating event invites runners and walkers of all ages and paces to enjoy a stunning early-morning race experience. Choose from 5K, 10K, half marathon or Family 1 Mile Fun Run. Swag bag includes a running t-shirt (shipped to you), finisher's medal, and an invite to join local running clubs. Liberty Station. https://findarace.com/us/events/sunrise-marathon-5k-10k-13-1-san-diego-2
San Diego 50 & Trail Runs. January 10, 2026
Get ready for an exhilarating day of adventure in Escondido! A variety of race distances caters to all levels of runners, from beginners to seasoned ultra marathoners. Kids and families can sign up for the family-friendly Stroller 5K or Elevated Youth 1 Mile run. 18195 Bandy Canyon Rd., Escondido. www.findarace.com/us/events/san-diego-50-trail-runs
Carlsbad Marathon, Half & 5K. January 18, 2026
Enjoy miles of breathtaking ocean views with outstanding course support and entertainment. Jan. 18, 6:15 am. 2525 El Camino Real. Register: https://inmotionevents.com/event/carlsbad-marathon
MLK 5K Walk/Fun Run. January 18, 2026
Walk, jog or run and celebrate MLK weekend in a healthy fashion with a scenic Embarcadero experience. 9 am. $35–$40. Harbor Dr. Register: www.runsignup.com/Race/CA/SanDiego/AlphaFoundationMLK5KRunWalk
Randy Jones Run/Walk & Roll for Independence. January 7, 2026
Enjoy games, interactive activities and a live DJ to get the morning started before the race kicks off. Benefits Home of Guiding Hands. 8 am–2 pm. NTC Park at Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Rd. Register: www.guidinghands.org
Fun Runs and 5Ks in February & March
17th Annual Mitchell Thorp Foundation Warrior Spirit 5K Run/Walk - February 7, 2026
Raise awareness and funds for children suffering from life-threatening illnesses, diseases and disorders. Poinsettia Park, 6600 Hidden Valley Rd., Carlsbad. Register: www.mitchellthorp.org/5k-run-walk
The Cardiff Kook Run - February 8, 2026
Kick off Superbowl Sunday with an epic 5K/10K run on Hwy. 101. Bring the little ones for a fun-filled morning at the Junior Kook Run (ages 3-12), happening during Packet Pickup on Saturday morning. The runs will take place on a safe, closed course next to the Vendor Village at the Ecke YMCA. Distances are tailored to each age group, ensuring a great experience for kids of all abilities. Registration Fee: $15 per child. Includes a commemorative Kids Run Medal. 101 E. D St, Encinitas. Register: www.thekookrun.com/event-details
Coronado Valentine's Day 10K, 5K, & 1 Mile Fun Run - February 15, 2026
Tidelands Park, Coronado.www.valentinesday10k.com
Hot Chocolate Run - March 8, 2026
Join the chocolate movement that's taking over the country. This race has it all — three distances (5K, 10K and 15 K), premium swag and a post-race chocolate experience like no other. Treat yourself to the VIP Cocoa Club, an exclusive upgrade that includes premium swag, extra-special treats, and a cozy lounge to relax and indulge post-race. To learn more and to purchase tickets for our San Diego event, visit: hotchocolate15k.com/city/san-diego. Downtown San Diego and Balboa Park.
Mermaid Half Marathon San Diego - March 14, 2026
Enjoy a flat and fun run/walk along Mission Bay. Choose from 5K, 10K, Half Marathon or 1.5-mile Dash (ages 6-12). The 1.5-mile Dash is a great way to introduce kids to running and walking. www.mermaidseries.com/mermaid-half-marathon-san-diego
San Diego Humane Society Walk for Animals North County - March 21, 2026
The funds raised help to provide animals with shelter and lifesaving medical care, adopt pets into loving homes, rescue animals from cruelty and neglect and more. Kit Carson Park, 3333 Bear Valley Pkwy., Escondido. Register: www.sdhumane.org/support-us/fundraising/walk-for-animals
Fun Runs and 5Ks in April and May
Race for Autism Superhero 5K and 1-mile Family Walk - April 11, 2026
Kick off Autism Acceptance Month at the 22nd annual Race for Autism in beautiful Balboa Park. This family-friendly event attracts thousands of superheroes from all across San Diego to promote awareness, shine a spotlight on neurodiversity and inclusion efforts, and raise funds to support local autism programs and initiatives. Registration includes a race T-shirt or kid's cape, commemorative medal and bib. Event includes music, refreshments, children’s activities and an informational resource fair with 50+ autism vendors. www.raceforautism.org
Muddy Dash 5K - May 2, 2026
Run, walk, crawl and slide as you get fabulously filthy. Bates Nut Farm, 15954 Woods Valley Rd., Valley Center. Register: www.muddydash.com
San Diego Humane Society Walk for Animals San Digo - May 2, 2026
The funds raised help to provide animals with shelter and lifesaving medical care, adopt pets into loving homes, rescue animals from cruelty and neglect and more. NTC Park at Liberty Station. Register: www.sdhumane.org/support-us/fundraising/walk-for-animals
Adrienne Sigeti is the editorial assistant at San Diego Family Magazine. She loves to participate in one of San Diego's many Turkey Trots on Thanksgiving Day.
Updated: December 2025
