Get ready for a deliciously fun event at the annual Clarke Ice Cream Run, taking place on Saturday, March 28, 2026, in Jacksonville, FL! This popular family-friendly event offers both a timed 5K and a 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk, welcoming runners and walkers of all ages and abilities to the scenic St. Johns Town Center. The course weaves through the vibrant outdoor mall, providing an engaging urban backdrop for your run, and is generally flat, making it accessible for personal bests or a leisurely stroll. Typical race day conditions in late March bring pleasant weather, with highs around 78F and lows around 58F, and only a 10% chance of precipitation, ensuring ideal running temperatures.

What truly sets the Clarke Ice Cream Run apart is its incredible post-race reward and heartfelt mission. Participants are treated to a Marble Slab Creamery & Great American Cookie ice cream Doozie at the finish line, making every step worthwhile. Beyond the sweet treats, this event is a cherished tradition in the Jacksonville community, having originated over a decade ago as a gesture of gratitude for the services provided by Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech. It continues to serve as Clarke Florida's largest annual fundraiser, with 100% of the proceeds directly supporting children who are deaf or hard of hearing learn to listen and talk. The atmosphere is always lively, with many runners embracing the "doozie of a good time" by sporting creative costumes, with prizes awarded for the best dressed.

Starting bright and early at 7:30 AM (with the vendor area opening at 6:30 AM) from the St. Johns Town Center, near Maggiano's and Marble Slab Creamery, the Clarke Ice Cream Run promises a memorable experience for a fantastic cause. Strollers are welcome, making it perfect for families, though pets should stay home. Top male and female 5K finishers will also receive Visa Gift Cards, adding a competitive edge to this otherwise wonderfully whimsical event. Join hundreds of fellow runners and ice cream lovers to support Clarke Florida and enjoy one of the "coolest family-friendly events in North Florida".