2026 Run for The Beads by Califlow Runs

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.