The Victory Lap: Registration Opens for the 2nd Annual Venice Beach Half Marathon

CAMPBELL WELMAN VENICE PAPARAZZI VENICE HALF MARATHON START LINE

(Photo courtesy of Venice Paparazzi)

If last year’s sold-out debut was any indication, the Venice Beach Half Marathon & 5K has officially claimed its spot as the Westside’s premier spring athletic tradition. On Sunday, May 17th, over 5,000 runners and families will take over the streets for a race that feels less like a track meet and more like a rolling block party.

Founded by local Generic Events duo Brennan and Michelle Lindner, the 2026 edition (presented by goodr) is doubling down on its "Venice-first" ethos, with a goal to raise $25,000 for local schools.

The Course: A Love Letter to 90291

This isn’t just a flat run, it’s a scenic tour of the landmarks we call home. The route winds through:

  • The Classics: Ocean Front Walk and the Venice Canals.

  • The Hubs: Abbot Kinney Blvd and Venice Blvd.

  • The Finish: A high-energy finish line directly beneath the iconic Venice Sign on Windward Ave.

Beyond the Miles: The Festival Atmosphere

The race itself is only part of the story. Generic Events has curated an experience that stretches from the "Rydell High" (Venice High) celebration to a VIP beer garden at Belle’s Beach House.

  • For the Kids: The "Grunion Run" and Junior Dash ensure the next generation of Venice athletes gets their moment in the sun.

  • The After-Party: Windward Circle will be transformed into a post-race festival with live performances and shop discounts along the Blvd.

Capturing the Fun

No Venice event is complete without our friends at Venice Paparazzi. Once you cross that finish line on Windward, make a beeline for their very cool photo and video booths. Whether you’re hitting a personal best or just finished the Family Dash, they’ll be there to capture your post-race glory in true Venice style.

The Campbell Wellman Take: This event captures the exact energy we talk about when we describe the Venice lifestyle. It’s high-energy, it’s charitable, and it utilizes our iconic streets in a way that brings everyone together. Whether you’re running the Half or just cheering from Abbot Kinney with a coffee, it’s a weekend that makes you proud to live here.

 

Ready to lace up? Registration is officially open at RunVeniceBeach.com. See you at the Venice Sign!