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 February & March
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.
San Diego Leprechaun Run 5K and Kids 1 Mile. March 14, 2026
All participants receive a Leprechaun Run t-shirt, finisher medal, chip timing, free photos and a complimentary drink. Run through the streets of Pacific Beach, finish under the rainbow and enjoy a drink to start your St. Patrick’s Day party. The Kids 1 Mile is for kids ages 12 and under. All youth participants will receive green glasses, chip-timed 1 Mile result and a finisher medal. Garnet Ave. in front of the Bank of America (912 Garnet Ave). www.sandiegorunningco.com/sdrc_events/san-diego-leprechaun-run
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
Mission Hills 5K - March 21, 2026
Run or walk through the streets of San Diego's historic Mission Hills neighborhood. All proceeds benefit educational programming at Grant TK-8, helping to enrich the learning experience for every student. Online registration closes March 18, 2026. Register by March 7 to guarantee an official Mission Hills 5K t-shirt. Pets, roller skates and other wheeled devices are not allowed on the 5K course. Jogging strollers and race wheelchairs are permitted. After you cross the finish line, stick around for the Finish Line Fun Fair in Pioneer Park, featuring family activities, community booths and post-race celebrations. 1425 Washington Pl. www.runsignup.com/Race/CA/SanDiego/MissionHills5K
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
GiGi’s 5K Dash for Down Syndrome - April 19, 2026
The GiGi’s 5K is a joyful community celebration set along the beautiful Mission Bay waterfront, featuring three inclusive ways to participate (Donut Run 5K, 1 Mile Inspiration Walk, Kids Dash for Down Syndrome), welcoming all ages and abilities so everyone can take part in a way that feels right for them. 8 am–1 pm. Crown Point North Mission Bay. Register: https://gigisplayhouse.donordrive.com/san-diego-5k-26
Fins & Flippers 5K and Kids Fun Run - April 19, 2026
This exciting 3.1-mile route will guide you through the scenic grounds of SeaWorld San Diego, passing by your favorite animals and exhibits. Throughout the course will be beautiful views of Mission Bay, ocean-inspired surprises, photo ops with aquatic themes, and lively, sea-inspired characters! Every participant will receive an official race shirt, a race bib with a timing chip, a unique finisher medal, and a chance to qualify for special sea-worthy awards. Costumes encouraged! 500 Sea World Dr. www.seaworld.com/san-diego/events/fins-and-flippers-5k
NAMIWalks San Diego - April 25, 2026
NAMIWalks is a moment to raise awareness, reduce stigma and provide support for the one in five individuals living with mental health conditions. 7–11 am. NTC Park in Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Rd. Register: www.namiwalks.org/sandiego
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
5K Walk for Wildlife & Fun Run - May 9, 2026
Help raise vital funds for wildlife conservation in the San Diego River Watershed. Enjoy a healthy, fun-filled morning at the beautiful Riverwalk Golf Club with stunning river views, live music, food trucks, wildlife booths, educational activities and more. Whether you’re running solo, walking with friends, bringing the whole family, or coming with your pup (leashed dogs welcome), we hope you can join us! Early bird pricing is available through March 9. The first 250 registrants receive a FREE t-shirt. Riverwalk Golf Club, 1150 Fashion Valley Rd. www.raceroster.com/events/2026/114772/river-days-walk-for-wildlife-and-fun-run.
The Navy's 39th Annual Bay Bridge Run/Walk - May 17, 2026
Enjoy a scenic 4-mile course through downtown San Diego, over the Coronado Bridge and into Tidelands Park. The 10K course runs the same route, continuing through a flat section through Coronado Island. Participants can choose to ride a shuttle bus or take the ferry after the event, FREE of charge. Starts at One Park Blvd. between the Hilton Bayfront and Convention Center and ends at Tidelands Park, Coronado. www.runsignup.com/Race/CA/SanDiego/NavysBayBridgeRun
Vista Strawberry Run 5K Run/Walk & Kids Races - May 24, 2026
Run or walk the scenic 5K course or the just-for-fun Kids 1-mile or 1/4-mile and then stay to enjoy the Vista Strawberry Festival in the heart of downtown Vista. www.inmotionevents.com/event/vista-strawberry-run/event-details
Fun Runs and 5Ks in January
Port of San Diego Game Day Holiday Bowl 5K Walk/Run.
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. Harbor & Ash, downtown San Diego. Register: www.holidaybowl.com
Sunrise Marathon 5K
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.
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.
Enjoy miles of breathtaking ocean views with outstanding course support and entertainment. 2525 El Camino Real. Register: https://inmotionevents.com/event/carlsbad-marathon
MLK 5K Walk/Fun Run.
Walk, jog or run and celebrate MLK weekend in a healthy fashion with a scenic Embarcadero experience. Harbor Dr. Register: www.runsignup.com/Race/CA/SanDiego/AlphaFoundationMLK5KRunWalk
Randy Jones Run/Walk & Roll for Independence.
Enjoy games, interactive activities and a live DJ to get the morning started before the race kicks off. Benefits Home of Guiding Hands. NTC Park at Liberty Station, 2455 Cushing Rd. Register: www.guidinghands.org
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: January 2026
