The sights and sounds of Mission Viejo can be experienced in a whole new way: on foot, in 2018 Mission Viejo fun runs. Fun runs are a challenging and excellent way to relieve stress and maybe even find a new favorite exercise in running.
These 2018 Mission Viejo fun runs are a great way to benefit your recovery through stress relief and helping to maintain a healthy weight.
March
When: March 22
What: Queensway 5K
Where: Long Beach
See the sights of Long Beach, beginning at the Queen Mary and along the shoreline and back with this 5K. You can run or run or walk this race, so it’s ideal for beginners.
For more information: https://runsignup.com/Race/Events/CA/longbeach/TheQueensway5k#event-203914
When: March 25
What: The Rabbit Run 5K & OC Challenge “Wild Hare” 5K
Where: Irvine
This fun run features a flat course on a paved trail. Runners can also participate in an egg hunt along the course. This family-friendly run also welcome strollers, bicycles and tricycles.
For more information: https://runsignup.com/Race/CA/Irvine/TheRabbitRunandWildHare5K
April
When: April 21
What: The Inflatable Run Orange County
Where: Costa Mesa
The Inflatable Run Orange County features lots of fun with inflatable obstacles on the way to completing the 5K. This run is family-friendly and features entertainment, food truck vendors and more.
For more information: https://www.theinflatablerun.com/orange-county/
May
When: May 5
What: Cinco De Miles 5K
Where: Huntington Beach
With a tagline of “A chips and salsa kind of race,” this is a healthy way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Both a 5K and 10K run trail are available on a beautiful beach course.
For more information: https://www.carenwareevents.com/cinco-de-oh-my-oh-5k10k/
When: May 20
What: Great Donut Run/Walk 5K
Where: Irvine
The Great Donut Run features a 5K race and—you guessed it—donuts! Runners can dress up in fun costumes for this laid-back, donut-celebrating race.
For more information: http://www.greatdonutrun.com
June
When: June 23
What: SoCal’s Pirate’s Run 5K/10K
Where: Huntington Beach
Ahoy, maties! Get your sea legs and participate in this pirate-themed race. Participants can then enjoy music and fun at the Pirate’s Festival at Long Beach after the run.
For more information: http://itzabouttime.com/the-so-cal-pirates-5k-10k-run
August
When: August 11
What: WetNWild 5K
Where: La Mirada
Dive into a lazy river at the end of this fun 5K. This family-friendly event raises fund for Strong Tower Ministry, which works to help impoverished children.
For more information: https://www.wetnwild5k.com
When: August 12
What: Tiki Beach 5K and 10K
Where: Huntington Beach
This Polynesian-themed event features 5K and 10K running opportunities. Participants also really love the Hawaiian dance warm-up before the race begins.
For more information: http://itzabouttime.com/tiki-beach
September
When: September 23
What: Costa Mesa Community Run
Where: Costa Mesa
This fun run is for a great cause and benefits the public schools of Costa Mesa. Family fun run, 5K, and 10K distances are available.
For more information: https://runsignup.com/Race/CA/CostaMesa/CostaMesaCommunityRun
November
When: November 22
What: Orange County Turkey Trot
Where: Irvine
Prep for those Thanksgiving Day calories at the Orange County Turkey Trot. This flat course weaves through Irvine Valley College, and racers enjoy pie at the finish line.
For more information: http://runocturkeytrot.com
December
When: December 30
What: Run in the New Year 5K/10K/Half Marathon
Where: Huntington Beach
Run in the new year with this New Year’s-themed running event. Make running a half marathon your end-of-the year goal or simply enjoy the 5K run.
For more information: http://itzabouttime.com
How to Get Started Running
If you haven’t gone for a run in some time, there are several apps and resources to help start you on your fitness journey. Couch to 5K offers a week-by-week running plan at www.c25k.com. There is also a Couch to 5K app app for your phone that allows you to track your progress. The app also offers trainer that provide encouragement while you run.
Whether you use an app, a website or just yourself, put some of these 2018 Mission Viejo fun runs on your calendar and strengthen your body and your sobriety.