San Diego’s Leprechaun Run 2026: What to Expect in 2026

San Diego’s 8th annual St. Patrick’s Day Leprechaun Run 5K is this coming weekend. Join thousands of runners and fans as they turn the streets green!

Key Takeaways

The San Diego Leprechaun Run is an annual 5K race set for Saturday, March 14th, 2026, starting at 9:00am from 875 Garnet Ave. in Pacific Beach.
What’s new for the 2026 event? Due to course renovations, there will be fewer runners. There will also be changes to post-race celebrations.
Parking may be tough, but we have included some helpful tips about finding spots, getting there, no-parking zones, and street closures.

By Todd Sarouhan

Last Updated on
Mar 13, 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's Leprechaun Run 5K: This Saturday

About the Leprechaun Run

What's New in 2026

Go City Pass & Save

Getting There & Parking

Last Minute Tips

Popular Activities

Stay Nearby

2026 San Diego Leprechaun Run: Your Last-Minute Cheat Sheet

Erika Getting Ready for the Leprechaun Run

Running the Leprechaun Run in Pacific Beach

The San Diego Leprechaun Run, turning Pacific Beach green this coming weekend, is a super fun, St Patrick's Day themed 5K that I can totally recommend!

As a local to the event, I've personally participated multiple times. It's much smaller than December's annual San Diego Santa Run that follows a very similar route. Although I'd say that it's less festive than the Santa Run, I enjoy its more mellow and intimate vibe.

Now in its 8th year, the event will offer many traditional elements, allowing San Diegans to celebrate Irish culture while getting some exercise and enjoying a sense of community.

3, 2, 1, Go, the Leprechaun Run

What, When, and Where

This year's Leprechaun Run will take place on March 14th, 2026, at 9:00am. The starting and ending point will be at 875 Garnet Ave. in the Pacific Beach neighborhood. There will also be a kids' 1-mile run in the same location kicking off at 10:30am.

Participants will receive free swag like a t-shirt for the 5K and some cool green sunglasses for the Kid's 1 Mile. There will also be free photos taken and a post-race celebration.

How to Participate & What's the Cost?

You can register for the race on the event website. The adult 5K costs $59.99, and the kids' 1-mile is $34.99. There will be a price jump starting on March 14th.

Arrive Early for Free Street Parking

Pacific Beach street parking fills up fast on race day. Locals know to arrive at least 45 minutes early to snag a free spot within walking distance of the starting line at 875 Garnet Ave. Look for spots along side streets off Garnet as you drive in from the I-5.

This Year's Leprechaun Run - What's New for 2026

Every year, the run brings back some traditional elements adding in a few new surprises to keep everyone on their toes. Here are some changes you can expect for the 2026 event.

Run Capacity

Due to parts of the course being closed for renovations in 2026, this year there will be capacity limits regarding how many runners can participate. As a result, the race is currently capped. A new course is under review, potentially guiding changes for 2027.

Post Race Party at the Leprechaun Run

Post-Race Celebrations

Like last year, post-race celebrations will still be held at Maverick's Beach Club and the 710 Beach Club. You can also enjoy discounts at PB AleHouse and Molly's Coffee Shop. However, unlike last year, discounts will no longer be available at Woodstock's Pizza.

FUN with Go City Pass!

Belmont Park Ride and Play Pass

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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%!

Parking & Transportation: What You Should Know

As with any event in a big city, getting there and parking can be a hassle. As a local that lives in Pacific Beach, follow these tips to limit any race day issues.

MTS Bus and Pacific Soul Statue

Getting There

The race is accessible from the I-5. Exit Garnet Avenue and head west toward the starting line. If you see a street spot on your way in within reasonable walking distance, I highly recommend taking it as it will likely be your best choice.

It's also worth noting that your route may be impacted by race day street closures. To limit your stress all together, it may be a good idea to take public transportation or a San Diego rideshare.

Parking

There is free street parking, but it may fill up quickly, so if that is your preference I'd recommend an early arrival. If you are unable to find free parking, there are paid parking lots nearby that are easy to find in Google Maps.

Certain spots and areas will be marked as no-parking zones. Be aware and do not park in these spots, or you may get towed.

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Final Tips: Know Before You Go

With the race coming up this weekend, below are just a few more final tips to keep in mind to ensure you have the best possible experience.

Kids 1 Mile Run at the San Diego Leprechaun Run

Is the Event Stroller-friendly?

Yes, strollers are welcome. The organizers actually also encourage you to decorate them in line with the spirit of the event.

Can I Run with my Dog?

Unfortunately, due to the size of the event, the race cannot accommodate dogs. Service animals though are always welcome.

Pueblo Restaurant a Fun Destination

Where Can I Get Coffee or Food After the Race?

If you're bringing your kids, our team at Go Visit San Diego put together a list of fun kid-friendly restaurants in San Diego which includes some awesome options.

For coffee or breakfast, check out Kono's Café or Breakfast Republic. For pizza I suggest Square Pizza Co – Pacific Beach. If you like Mexican Iike I do, try Pueblo. And for an upscale surf 'n' turf experience with a view try JRDN Restaurant.

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