Lace up for an unforgettable Mother's Day weekend at the Mother's Day Half Marathon on May 3, 2026, in scenic Kirkland, WA. Offering both a Half Marathon and a 5K, this cherished annual event, presented by Orca Running, promises a memorable experience for runners of all levels. Participants can expect typical race day conditions with comfortable highs around 63°F and lows around 46°F, alongside an 11% chance of precipitation, providing ideal running weather.

The Half Marathon course is renowned for its picturesque and dynamic route, beginning at Northwest University on 108th Avenue and culminating at Juanita Beach Park. Runners will traverse a captivating blend of paved roads and crushed gravel trails along the Cross Kirkland Corridor Trail, boasting continuous, breathtaking views of Lake Washington, Moss Bay, and Juanita Bay. While reviews note the course features "challenging hills" with an elevation gain of approximately 169 meters for the half marathon, making it a "rolling" course, the rewarding downhill stretches and lakeside breezes towards the finish provide a welcome relief. The 5K, starting and finishing at Juanita Beach Park, offers a "moderate" elevation gain of 52 meters through charming neighborhood roads.

Runners can rely on well-supported aid stations every 2-3 miles along the Half Marathon route (one at mile 2 for the 5K), stocked with water, Tailwind Nutrition, and GU gels. However, in line with Orca Running's cupless initiative, participants are encouraged to bring their own hydration vessels. Beyond the race itself, your entry includes chip timing, a beautiful finisher's medal for both distances, a super soft race t-shirt, free professional photo downloads, and post-race snacks, all while supporting charities like Girls on the Run Puget Sound. The event also features pacers for the Half Marathon and a fun Kids Race, creating a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere that runners frequently praise as a "great race" with a "good vibe" and "gorgeous scenery".