2026 Run for The Beads by Califlow Runs - Official Event Logo
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Long Beach, United States
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Road
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3.1 miles, 6.2 miles, 13.1 miles
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Sunday, 22 February 2026
The 2026 Run for The Beads by Califlow Runs will take place on Sunday, February 22, 2026, in Long Beach, California, with the start and finish located at 5100 E Ocean Blvd (Granada Beach). The event will feature a flat, coastal course along Ocean Boulevard with beach-adjacent sections near Granada Beach. On this date, Long Beach is expected to have mild temperatures ranging from 50°F to 60°F with partly cloudy skies, creating ideal conditions for a road race. Participants will experience a scenic, paved route with minimal elevation change, designed for both competitive runners and first-time participants. The event includes Mardi Gras-themed elements such as bead stations, a costume contest, and a finish line festival with live entertainment and King Cake.
What distances are available for this event?
→Half Marathon starting at 7:00 AM
→10K starting at 7:30 AM
→5K starting at 7:30 AM
How much does registration cost?
→5K: $52.93
→10K: $57.17
→Half Marathon: $63.53
What is the course cutoff time for the Half Marathon?
→The Half Marathon has a 3-hour, 20-minute course cutoff.
What event amenities are included in registration?
→Water and bead stations approximately every 2 miles
→Finisher medal for all participants
→Age-group and overall awards
→Costume contest with prizes for Most Festive, Best Group, and Wildest Spirit
→Finish line festival featuring live DJ, King Cake, and photo zones with Mardi Gras props
→Free professional race photos provided post-event
→Stroller- and walker-friendly course
→Chip-timed with results synced to Athlinks
What is the event schedule?
→Half Marathon: 7:00 AM start
→10K and 5K: 7:30 AM start
What is the weather policy for the event?
→The event is rain or shine. It will only be postponed for extreme emergencies, such as tsunami-level conditions, with email notification to registrants.
What is the race start and bib pickup information?
→Bib pickup opens at 6:00 AM race morning at the Race Ready Athletics tent.
What is the charity partner for this event?
→The event partners with Merge Opportunities, a Long Beach nonprofit that provides job training and placement for young adults (18–28) facing barriers to employment, including those experiencing housing insecurity or transitioning from foster care.
What is the event host?
→The event is hosted by CaliFlow Runs, known for producing festive, community-focused road races throughout Southern California with an emphasis on coastal scenery, inclusive pacing, and vibrant finish-line experiences.
What is the event theme?
→The event is a Mardi Gras-themed celebration, encouraging participants to wear purple, green, and gold and collect colorful beads at aid stations throughout the course.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is 2026 Run for The Beads by Califlow Runs?
A: The event takes place on 22 February 2026.
Q: Where is the event held?
A: The event is held in Long Beach, United States.
Q: What distances are available?
A: Available distances: 3.1 miles, 6.2 miles, 13.1 miles.
