Santa Monica Run for the Beads - Mardi Gras Run

Get ready to let the good times roll at the Santa Monica Run for the Beads - Mardi Gras Run, an exhilarating coastal celebration hitting Long Beach, California, on Sunday, February 22, 2026! Choose your challenge from a Half Marathon (13.1M), 10K, or 5K, and immerse yourself in a vibrant Mardi Gras-themed experience. Held at beautiful Granada Beach, this event promises a fully marked, flat, and fast course, designed to offer miles of smiles and coastal charm, showcasing the best of Southern California's iconic beaches. Typical race day conditions in late February offer ideal running weather, with highs around 68°F and lows around 49°F, and only a 6% chance of precipitation.

This isn't just a race; it's a festive parade on the pavement! Participants are encouraged to embrace the Mardi Gras spirit by dressing in purple, green, and gold, with a costume contest rewarding the most festive, best group, and wildest spirit. As you dash along the course, "bead and water stations" will keep you hydrated and showering you with Mardi Gras beads every two miles. The celebration culminates in an lively finish line festival, featuring live music, professional chip timing, epic photo opportunities with colorful backdrops, and, of course, delicious King Cake and other festive treats.

Organized by CaliFlow Runs, known for their welcoming, fun, and high-energy events for all levels, the Santa Monica Run for the Beads guarantees an unforgettable experience. Every participant receives a finisher medal, and the event is proudly stroller and walker-friendly, ensuring everyone can join in the Mardi Gras magic. Bib pick-up opens at 6:00 AM, with the Half Marathon starting at 7:00 AM and the 5K and 10K races kicking off at 7:30 AM. Ample beach lot parking is available for convenience.