Welcome Home: The Will Rogers July 4th Run Returns to Palisades
There is no place like Pacific Palisades on the Fourth of July, and this year, one of our favorite town traditions is officially coming home.
After being temporarily relocated to Venice Beach last year due to fire-related damage, the Palisades Will Rogers 5K/10K Run is returning to its historic, traditional course for its 48th year. This year's event holds an extra layer of meaning: not only does it coincide with the nation’s landmark 250th anniversary, but a portion of the proceeds will directly fund the ongoing recovery and rebuilding efforts right here in our backyard.
Whether you are looking to set a personal record or just walk off some 4th of July barbecue, this is an awesome way to kick off Independence Day with your Palisades friends.
The Details: Four Ways to Move
Established in 1978, this beloved run serves as both a symbol of the neighborhood’s incredible resilience and the official morning starter for the town's holiday festivities. The event features four distinct races to accommodate runners (and walkers) of all ages and paces:
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The Traditional 10K: The iconic course winds its way through the breathtaking, shaded trails of Will Rogers State Park before heading toward the historic hometown finish line.
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The 5K Run & Walk: Perfect for families, casual joggers, and anyone wanting to catch up with neighbors while soaking in the morning coastal air.
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The Dick Lemon Run: A dedicated, competitive division specifically for local high school athletes.
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The Kids Fun Run: A half-mile dash designed to let the little ones get their energy out before the afternoon parades begin.
Racing for a Reason: Continuing the Rebuild
The impact of this race stretches far beyond the finish line. The organizing foundation has already contributed over $200,000 toward the reconstruction of the Palisades Recreation Park, which sustained heavy damage in the Palisades Fire.
With construction on the park slated to officially begin this summer, your race registration acts as a direct investment in the community. Proceeds and direct donations from this year’s event will continue to support local charities and the non-profit's ongoing recovery initiatives to ensure our public green spaces come back better than ever.
The Campbell Wellman Take
This event perfectly captures the tight-knit, deeply supportive culture that makes Pacific Palisades such an extraordinary place to live. When the fire impacted our neighborhood, everyone immediately asked how they could help. Seeing the race return to its historic home at Will Rogers State Park—while actively funding the park's summer rebuild—is a very cool nod to the strength of the Westside community.
If you're looking for a fun, feel-good way to celebrate the 4th of July, lace up and join us on the starting line. It’s a reminder that the best part of coastal living isn't just the scenery—it’s the neighbors who stand by it.