Run Into the New Year in Carlsbad

LEGOLAND Kids Marathon Mile

The LEGOLAND Kids Marathon Mile is a family-friendly event taking place on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at the LEGOLAND California Resort.

A Mile of Inclusivity and Fun

The Kids Marathon Mile is a special 1-mile fun run that embraces children of all ages and abilities. It's a unique opportunity for participants to run or walk through the colorful world of LEGOLAND. The event is specifically designed to be inclusive, allowing even the littlest of legs to be pushed in strollers or carried on backs, so that everyone, regardless of physical ability, can join in on the fun.

Supporting Merlin's Magic Wand

This event proudly supports Merlin's Magic Wand, a charity that provides magical experiences for children facing serious challenges. A portion of each race registration goes directly to the charity, aiding their efforts in creating Magical Days Out, transforming spaces with Magic Spaces and bringing joy through Magic On Tour. These programs offer free tickets to Merlin attractions, revitalize spaces in hospitals and schools and deliver the magic of Merlin to children who cannot visit the attractions.

Event Details and Perks

The day's activities begin at 6:30 a.m. with the opening of the LEGOLAND parking lot. Event day registration starts at 6:45 a.m., leading up to the race start at 7:45 AM. This early start ensures that participants can enjoy the park's attractions exclusively before crowds roll in.

Entry Benefits

Participants in the Kids Marathon Mile receive several exciting perks:

Souvenir Event T-Shirt: Each racer is awarded a commemorative T-shirt, a keepsake that marks their participation in the event.

Finisher's Medal: To celebrate their achievement, every participant receives a finisher's medal, symbolizing their effort and participation.

LEGOLAND Ticket Offers: The event provides a special Buy One, Get One offer on various LEGOLAND tickets. This includes options for LEGOLAND only, LEGOLAND + SEA LIFE Hopper or LEGOLAND + Water Park Hopper tickets. These offers are valid from the event day until the end of April 2024, allowing families to extend their LEGOLAND experience.

Annual Pass Upgrade Opportunity: Participants have the chance to upgrade their paid ticket to a LEGOLAND® annual pass, offering a year full of fun and adventure.

Exclusive Access to Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store: Each racer receives a one-day pass to the Carlsbad Columbia Sportswear Company Employee Store, for a shopping experience that isn’t available to the general public.

A Race with a Heart

The Kids Marathon Mile at LEGOLAND puts community, charity, and the benefits of being active on the map in 2024. It's an event where families can come together to start the year with positivity, where children learn the importance of giving back and where everyone can experience the thrill of crossing the finish line. When it comes to the New Year, this event stands as a great example of how small steps can lead to significant and joyful beginnings.

Carlsbad Marathon

The following day, Sunday, January 14, the Carlsbad Marathon takes center stage. The Marathon offers participants an additional chance to embrace the New Year with a spirit of running and revitalization.

A Scenic Challenge for All

Each of the races within the Carlsbad Marathon are set against miles of the pristine Pacific coast. The event includes a Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K and a Double Down Challenge, which combines the 5K and Half Marathon. There's also a virtual option for all distances, so that participants can join the experience worldwide.

Race Details and Registration

Full Marathon: Begins at 6:15 AM, capped at 1,200 participants.
Half Marathon: Starts at 7:45 AM, with a cap of 4,500 participants.
5K: Kicks off at 6:45 AM, limited to 1,000 participants.
Double Down Challenge: A combination of the 5K and half marathon, offering a unique 16.2-mile challenge.

What's Included

Participants in each race receive a comprehensive package, including:

A long-sleeve technical-fabric shirt and a premium technical-fabric 1/4 zip pullover.
A gorgeous finisher's medal and a souvenir cinch bag.
Access to support stations and entertainment along the course.
Complimentary beer in the post-race beer garden (for participants of legal drinking age).
A finisher food bag filled with nutritious refueling foods at the finish line.
The full marathon is a Boston qualifier, and all events are part of the SoCal Triple Crown series.

Virtual Races

For those who can't join in person, the Carlsbad Marathon also offers a virtual option for all distances. Participants can complete their chosen distance at their own pace, time and location. The virtual race includes the same swag as the in-person event, so that everyone can be a part of the experience, no matter where they are.

The Finish Line Festival

At the end of the race, The Shoppes at Carlsbad will transform into an exciting finish line festival. Open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., this Finish Line Festival is where runners can relax, celebrate their accomplishments, and reunite with family and friends. It will feature live music, refreshments and a beer garden to unwind and revel in the joy of completing the race.

Entertainment Along the Course

The Carlsbad Marathon stands out for its diverse entertainment along the course. This year's lineup includes:

Cowboy Jack: Singing vintage country music with acoustic guitar and harmonica
Ascape: Specializing in classic rock, Ascape's has a large repertoire that bridges genres
Bell Pepperz: Playing rock, blues and country standards, the Bell Pepperz combine classic sounds with contemporary songs
Johnny C.: An acoustic singer/songwriter, Johnny C. adds a personal touch with his coastal-inspired music.
Semisi & Fula Bula: Offering a unique Polynesian Rock Reggae Fusion
Band Diego: Known for variety oldies beach music, rock-n-roll and country western

Here's to a healthy, happy, and revitalizing New Year!

Run Into the New Year in Carlsbad

LEGOLAND Kids Marathon Mile

Carlsbad Marathon

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