Lace up your shoes for the LMJS Fourth Sunday Race on February 22, 2026, a celebrated tradition around Oakland's picturesque Lake Merritt. This event, hosted by the Lake Merritt Joggers and Striders (LMJS), East Bay's oldest running club, offers a fantastic opportunity to tackle 5K, 10K, or 15K distances on a fast, certified course. Each lap around the iconic Lake Merritt provides scenic views of downtown Oakland's diverse architecture, ranging from historic Beaux-Arts buildings to modern skyscrapers, with recent course updates including south shore improvements and a new pedestrian bridge.

The LMJS Fourth Sunday Race is renowned for its welcoming, low-key atmosphere, making it ideal for runners of all abilities, from beginners and walkers to competitive racers. Typically, race day conditions in late February offer pleasant running weather, with highs around 64F and lows around 47F, and only a 15% chance of precipitation. Participants start at Adams Point, near the Sailboat House at 568 Bellevue Ave., where water is provided at the start and finish lines, and supportive volunteers are on hand to assist.

Beyond the main races, the LMJS fosters a strong community spirit, offering free kids' races for younger children and a youth race for older kids before the main event. For those seeking an ongoing challenge, LMJS members can participate in a "Total Time Competition" by completing all three distances over the calendar year. This longstanding monthly series is celebrated as one of the East Bay's favorite races, a testament to its consistent delivery of an engaging and accessible running experience.