San Diego Leprechaun Run 5K - 2026 Guide

Name: San Diego Leprechaun Run 5K - 2026 Guide
Start: 3/14/2026 9:00:00 AM
End: 3/14/2026 12:00:00 PM
Location: Along Garnet Ave & Cass St in Pacific Beach

Along Garnet Ave & Cass St in Pacific Beach

Garnet Ave & Cass St, San Diego, CA 92109

Pacific Beach

Date:

Mar 14, 2026 to Mar 14, 2026

Hours:

Starts at 9 am

Cost:

Tickets Starting at $59.99

Go for the pot-o-gold at the end of the rainbow at San Diego’s Leprechaun Run 5K 2026, an annual race held in Pacific Beach in the lead-up to St. Patrick’s Day.

Key Takeaways

The San Diego Leprechaun Run 5K will celebrate its 8th year on March 14th, 2026, starting at 9:00am in beautiful Pacific Beach.
When can you sign-up? You can register now, and I’d recommend it, as space is limited and prices will increase on March 14th.
Kids are invited to participate, both in the main race and the Kids 1 Mile run. The kids race will start at 10:30am.

By Jess Tucker

Last Updated on
Mar 11, 2026

Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. This means if you make purchases through them, I may be compensated at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.

San Diego Leprechaun Run 5K

Highlights

San Diego Leprechaun Run 5K

Things to Do

Getting There

Tips

San Diego's Leprechaun 5K: Turn Pacific Beach Green!

Dress up While Running the Leprechaun Run

All Ages Participate in the Leprechaun Run

I'll be honest and say that I personally have not been much of a runner in year's past, but I'm trying to get into it. As a resident of Pacific Beach, I'm drawn to the themed runs that take over the streets for these 5Ks with the San Diego Leprechaun Run being one of my absolute favorites of the year!

The event is approachable - fun to run with participants of all ages and fitness levels invited to take part!

So if you're in search of a fun and family-friendly way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in San Diego in 2026, why not dress in green and join thousands of other runners in taking over the streets of Pacific Beach?

Pacific Beach is a Great Place to Have a 5K

What is the Leprechaun Run?

The Leprechaun Run is a seasonal 5K and 1 Mile Kids run held annually in the Pacific Beach neighborhood of San Diego. Taking place since 2019, you absolutely don't have to be a competitive runner to join! I personally love that the event is a uniquely San Diego way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day.

As a PB resident myself, the race is practically in my backyard. It's really something to see a huge crowd of runners all dressed in green flooding the streets. In fact, it's a lot like the long-standing San Diego Santa Run held each December, just with 1000's of running leprechauns rather than 1000's of running Santas!

3, 2, 1, Go, the Leprechaun Run

When and Where is the 2026 Leprechaun Run 5K?

The 8th annual San Diego Leprechaun Run 5K will take place on Saturday, March 14th, 2026.

Be sure to mark your calendars as with St. Patrick's Day falling on a Tuesday this year, most of the St. Patrick's Day festivities will be taking place that weekend, including the race!

The 2026 Leprechaun Run 5K will kick off at 9:00am from 875 Garnet Ave., San Diego, CA 92109. You'll find this address just a few blocks from the beach in Pacific Beach.

Erika Getting Ready for the Leprechaun Run

My Personal Experience with the Leprechaun 5K

I've participated in the Leprechaun Run 5K twice now, and it's something I genuinely look forward to each year. Compared to the packed, high-energy vibe of something like the Santa Run, the Leprechaun Run feels more laid-back. It comes with the fun of a themed race, but without the overwhelming crowds.

The route will also be familiar if you've run the Santa Run before: flat, coastal, and breezy, perfect for a relaxed 5K. While you'll still see plenty of folks in green, the celebration is more subtle, focusing on the run itself and the friendly community atmosphere. I always leave this event in a better mood. There's something about the smaller crowd that just makes it feel more personal and enjoyable.

If you're after a low-key way to kick off St. Patrick's Day weekend, this is the race I'd recommend without hesitation.

Registering for the Leprechaun Run in 2026

The Leprechaun Run draws thousands of participants each year. With that in mind, I always suggest registering as far in advance as possible, and that holds true for the 2026 race and beyond.

While the 2026 race is quickly approaching, I know from experience that once this year's festivities are complete, the 2027 race registration information will be up soon after!

Race registration can be completed in advance online via the event's Race Roster page. You'll get some goodies with your registration. Here's the breakdown of pricing and what you get once you sign up!

Leprechaun Run Metal

Leprechaun Run 5K

Advanced registration for the 5K costs $59.99, with prices set to increase on March 14th and for same-day registration.

You can expect your packet to come with fun St. Patrick's Day-themed swag! Runners always get a t-shirt to commemorate the Leprechaun Run, plus a finisher medal, photo, and a chip timer. Runners 21 and older will also receive a complimentary drink ticket, which can be redeemed at Mavericks Beach Club, right next to the finish line festival, after the race.

Runners are encouraged (but not required) to wear green!

Kids 1 Mile Run at the San Diego Leprechaun Run

Kids 1 Mile

While the 5K might get most of the press, your kids are invited to join in a run as well! The Kids 1 Mile costs $34.99, with prices once again set to increase on March 14th and for same-day registration.

There is no age limit for the kids' race, and parents are invited to join their kids without registering. The kids will start their race at 10:30am.

All little runners will receive a finisher medal, a chip timer, and a pair of super cool sunglasses.

Run PB Challenge Metal at the San Diego Santa Run

Push Yourself: Join the 2026 Three Race Run PB Challenge!

This year, my wife and I have gathered up a group of friends to take on the Run PB Challenge. To successfully complete the Run PB Challenge, you just have to run in a series of three races held in Pacific Beach throughout the year, and the Leprechaun Run is the first on the 2026 challenge calendar.

The other two runs are the Pacific Beach Half Marathon & 5K, held in October, and the San Diego Santa Run, held in December.

By signing up for all three races, you'll get some bonus swag, including a special themed finisher medal and a Run PB Challenge bib at each race.

All three of these races just so happen to make our list of the 10 Best San Diego Half Marathons and Marathons in 2026, so if you like to run, want to run, or just want to be part of some incredible fun throughout the year, check out that article!

Entrance to the Pacific Terrace Hotel

Planning Ahead: Stay Near the Race

As for family-friendly hotels nearby, I'd recommend the Pacific Terrace Hotel.

It overlooks the Pacific Ocean with clean rooms and a friendly staff. At only a half mile from the Leprechaun Run starting line, it's well within walking distance if you want to skip the hassle of finding parking.

Featured Hotel

Tower 23 Hotel

Beachfront

Boutique

Couples

The Tower 23 Hotel offers a unique, upscale boutique hotel experience with distinctive architecture, elegant furnishings, high-end amenities, fine dining & more.

Prices Starting at $249

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What to Expect at the Leprechaun Run

While dressing up and sharing a sense of community are the icing on the cake, the main attraction is the race itself. Here's a quick cheat sheet of what you can expect in 2026.

Leprechaun Run

Start Times

There will be two races held in 2026: the 5K and the Kids 1 Mile. The start times are:

5K: 9:00am
Kids 1 Mile: 10:30am

Race Route

The 5K will kick off from 875 Garnet Ave, San Diego. It will continue up and down Cass St., then back along the length of Garnet Ave before looping back around. The finish line will be right back where you started, so if you have supporters in the crowd or you're coming to support friends and family yourself, it will be easy to meet up after the race.

It's also good to know that there will be an aid and water station about 1.5 miles into the run.

Post Race Party at the Leprechaun Run

Post-Race Celebrations

In the spirit of St. Patrick's Day, the post-race festivities include discounts on drinks at Mavericks Beach Club and Pacific Beach AleHouse, 21+ participants only.

However, there are still lots of things to do after the run if you have kids. For example, you can check out Woodstock's for pizza or Molly's for a delicious post-race coffee, snap photos with the themed decor, and of course participate in the Kids Run held at 10:30am.

FUN with Go City Pass!

Belmont Park Ride and Play Pass

Enjoy a day of FUN with your Go City San Diego Pass! Belmont Park is a beachfront amusement park with thrilling roller coasters, games and activities! You can also jump on the zip line or play mini-golf. Don't forget to peep the view!

Buy Now

Who Can Use a Go City San Diego Pass?

Adults and children (ages 3 to 12) can use the Go City San Diego pass – All-Inclusive or Explorer pass – to visit the area’s top attractions and activities.

Want to save more? Use our exclusive discount code GVSD5OFF to save an extra 5%!

Running for a Good Cause

You won't be surprised to discover that there are countless individuals donating their time for the race and the amazing cause it supports.

Lots of Groups Ready to Run the Leprechaun Run

A Community-Focused Event

The Leprechaun Run is made possible through the support of local sponsors and volunteers, all coming together to put on a community event. As a Pacific Beach resident, I'm proud to know that so many of my friends and neighbors are both taking part and helping run things behind the scenes.

Just know that the folks helping out are mostly volunteers so be sure to thank them for all that they do!

Benefitting Kids Around the World

The San Diego Leprechaun Run 5K benefits kids around the globe by collecting donations for Operation Smile, a charity that provides medical care for children with cleft palates. So not only will you be taking part in a fun event, but you'll also be supporting a worthy cause!

Leprechaun Streching for the Leprechaun Run

Spotlighting Irish Heritage

This St. Patrick's Day-themed run is also connected with San Diego's Irish community. Whether you have some Irish heritage yourself or just want to take part in this cultural celebration, the Leprechaun Run is a fun way to celebrate.

It joins a long tradition of St. Patrick's Day celebrations in San Diego, such as the St. Patrick's Day Parade and Festival in Balboa Park, which has been running for more than 40 years!

Arrive Early for Free Street Parking

Street parking in Pacific Beach fills up fast on race day. Locals know to arrive at least an hour early to snag a free spot near Garnet Ave. Otherwise, you'll be stuck paying for a lot or walking quite a distance. The early bird gets the parking spot!

More Things to Explore

Belmont Park Ride and Play Pass

Discounts Available

Learn More

Birch Aquarium at Scripps

Discounts Available

Learn More

La Jolla Kayak & Snorkel Tour

$129 / group of 2

Buy Now

Old Town Tequila & Tacos Walking Food Tour

$84 per person

Book Tour

Getting There & Parking

Parking can be a hassle in a busy city like San Diego, especially when an event like the Leprechaun Run is happening. Let's have a look at how to get there and park.

MTS Bus and Pacific Soul Statue

Getting to the Race

If you plan to drive, simply enter '875 Garnet Ave. San Diego' into your GPS. Nearby highways include I-5, I-8, and CA 52. Or you could take US 101 to CA 1 (PCH).

You can avoid traffic completely by taking public transportation. Check the MTS (Metropolitan Transit System) website for routes that go to Garnet Ave. in San Diego.

San Diego rideshares are another option, or if you live close enough, consider biking or walking as parking will be tight for sure!

Parking

Speaking of parking, while there is free street parking in the area, it will fill up quickly. If you want to drive and park, I'd recommend you arrive extra early for your best shot at nabbing those spaces before they disappear.

If you're okay with paid parking, there are a few paid lots near the start and finish lines.

Be aware that some parking may be blocked off for the race with no parking signs. Vehicles parked in these spots will be towed at the owner's expense. Be on the lookout for no-parking locations and street closures.

Read signs carefully to avoid getting towed. That would put a real damper on the fun of your event!

Helpful Tips for Runner & Spectators

If you've never attended the race before, below are a few more helpful tips that will prepare you for your experience.

Stroller & Pet Policy

Since the 5K expects 1000's of runners, pets are not allowed.

However, participants may bring strollers, and decorated strollers are especially welcome!

Will There be Additional Merchandise for Sale?

You can purchase additional merch at the 2026 Leprechaun Run, including wristbands with the flag colors for $7 and green striped socks for $15.These are great ways to show your pride and remember the fun times you had at the race.

Beautiful Day at North Pacific Beach

Are There Good Beaches Near the Race?

Yes! With the coastline warming up for March, you won't want to miss out on a beach day.

If you're looking for beachies nearby, North Pacific Beach is an excellent choice. Others that aren't too far away include Mission Beach to the south and La Jolla Shores, a beautiful sandy beach not far to the north.

Erika Inside Turtle Reef at Seaworld San Diego

Can You Recommend a Family-Friendly Attraction Nearby?

As a parent, I always appreciate how so many San Diego activities are family-friendly. For example, after the 5K, you could head just a short distance to SeaWorld San Diego in Mission Bay Park.

SeaWorld San Diego is currently hosting their 2026 Seven Seas Food Festival, a seasonal event offering food and drinks from around the world as well as special concerts and entertainment.

You can get reduced admission to SeaWorld with a Go City San Diego pass. Use our discount code GVSD50FF for a little bonus savings. Do know though that the purchase of the food and drinks comes with an extra cost but I personally think it's well worth the incredible options offered at the event.

Entrance to Bare Back Grill

Are There Any Good Places to Refuel After the Race?

Oh, absolutely! If you're looking for somewhere to eat after the race, our list of Fun Kid-Friendly Restaurants in San Diego highlights a few options in the neighborhood our team would highly recommend.