Lock in the Magic of Movement with Carlsbad’s 2025 Must-Run Races

Runners don’t wait for the clock to strike midnight on December 31st to start figuring out where the next great race is. Carlsbad is where magic meets miles, with a running scene that knows how to keep the motivation high no matter what time of year it is. Sure, New Year’s resolutions are quickly approaching, but who needs the pressure of January 1st when Carlsbad’s race calendar is already out?

Here are a few races to keep an eye on in 2025:

The Carlsbad Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K, set for January 19, 2025, is a hallmark event in Southern California's running calendar, drawing participants from across the nation. Since its debut in 1990, this event has become etched into Carlsbad's running calendar. Want routes with unbelievable views and races executed with exceptional organization? This is where it's at. With three distance options, it’s a race weekend that competitive runners and casual joggers can all enjoy.

The Marathon
The full marathon begins at 6:15 a.m., sending runners on a trek alongside the heart of Carlsbad’s shoreline. The 26.2-mile course traces historic Highway 101, where ocean views stretch for miles, and the breeze keeps runners cool even as the miles pile up. The race is a Boston Marathon qualifier, meaning it’s a must for athletes chasing their spot in one of the world’s most prestigious races. With a six-hour time limit requiring a steady 13:44-minute mile pace, this route challenges runners to find their rhythm while enjoying the views.

The Half Marathon
If 26.2 miles feels daunting, the half marathon takes the edge off, letting runners cross the finish line after 13.1 miles. Kicking off at 7:45 a.m., this race offers a slightly shorter—but no less captivating—journey along the coast. The four-hour time limit allows for an 18:19-minute mile pace, giving plenty of room for runners of all paces to enjoy the experience.

The 5K
And lastly, if you’re after a quick, high-energy race, the 5K is where to sign up. Starting at 6:40 a.m., you can join fellow runners for just 3.1 miles. Sprint for a podium finish or stroll through the course, this race will get you moving regardless of how far you can go.

No matter which race you choose, every participant walks away with more than just sore legs. Swag includes a long-sleeve technical shirt, a premium quarter-zip pullover, and a finisher’s medal. And when you’re done sweating there's a post-race festival with live music, food, and a complimentary beer at the beer garden.

Not local? No problem. The event even offers a virtual race option, so you can run your chosen distance wherever you are while still receiving the official race swag.

Another race to keep on your radar in 2025 is for little legs with big dreams. The Kids Marathon Mile at LEGOLAND on January 18th is a race where you can mix family time with physical fitness. Kids are free to jog, walk, or jump through the streets of LEGOLAND before the park even opens to the public. This untimed one-mile fun run focuses on inclusion and family bonding–it’s all about having fun and getting your body moving.

Event Day Details
The day starts bright and early:
-6:30 a.m: The LEGOLAND® parking lot opens, with complimentary parking to keep things stress-free.
-6:45 a.m: On-the-day registration kicks off.
-7:45 a.m: The first wave of mile races begins, with kids and their grown-up companions hitting the course.

Every participant receives a souvenir T-shirt, a finisher’s medal, and a buy-one-get-one-free ticket offer for LEGOLAND. Families can upgrade this ticket to an annual pass for a year’s worth of entry to the park. And little ones won’t be running alone—each child under 12 gets one adult companion bib included with registration so they’ll have a buddy every step of the way.

To top it off, LEGOLAND partners with Merlin’s Magic Wand to donate a portion of each registration fee to support children facing illness, disability, or adversity by providing them with magical experiences at Merlin attractions.

Just as the Kids Marathon Mile captures the spirit of family and fun, the Carlsbad 5000 delivers a whole new kind of energy. When spring rolls into Carlsbad, so does the Carlsbad 5000, known for being one of the fastest and most thrilling 5Ks in the world. And while January might feel light-years away from April, this event is worth marking your calendar for now—it’s the kind of race that leaves both runners and spectators buzzing. Since its inception in 1986, it has drawn elite runners, casual participants, and everyone in between to its flat, scenic course along Coast Highway 101. It’s where PRs are smashed and records are set.

What Sets It Apart
-Masters (40+) and Open Divisions (39 and under): Whether you’re seasoned or just starting, these competitive races bring energy and camaraderie.
-Non-Competitive People’s Race: This division welcomes joggers, walkers, and first-time runners of all ages.
-Elite Invitational: The highlight of the day, this race showcases world-class athletes competing for a significant prize purse and bonuses for record-breaking performances.


The All Day 20K Challenge
For the boldest runners, the All Day 20K is the ultimate test. Participants complete four 5K races throughout the day, tackling divisions for Masters Women, Masters Men, Open Women, and Open Men. The perks? An exclusive All Day 20K medal, access to the Al & Recovery Zone with massage stations and private bathrooms, and the chance to push your limits like never before.

A Family Affair
Younger runners can join in the excitement with the Junior Carlsbad, part of the Kids Run Carlsbad series. This race is great for kids 12 and under, complete with its own medal to celebrate the achievement of joining in.

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

Why Wait for January 1?

Carlsbad’s race calendar is busy, but it reminds us why running feels like magic. From oceanfront marathons to kids’ runs and the world’s fastest 5K, these races are worth the anticipation. So why wait for January 1st to get moving? Sign up now, start training, and let the magic of movement set the tone for 2025.