Palisades Will Rogers 5K & 10K

The Palisades Will Rogers Run is one of California’s most historic and iconic Independence Day races, first established in 1977 with the inaugural run in 1978. It was created to complement the July 4th celebrations in Pacific Palisades—featuring a morning race, afternoon parade, and evening fireworks. Over the decades, it has become one of the most well-known 10Ks in California and across the country, even featured in publications such as Runner’s World as a “must-run” event. The race typically draws 2,800–3,000 runners ranging from young children to athletes over 80 years old, and attracts participants from both the local community and out of state. Net proceeds benefit Optimist Club youth charities.

Race distances include a 5K, 10K, and Kids Fun Run (non-competitive).

All participants will receive a Finisher Tech T-Shirt upon completion of the race. The 2026 shirt design is attached.

The 5K and 10K feature competitive age group awards, with commemorative medals given to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers across 36 divisions (18 male and 18 female per race). The Kids Fun Run is non-competitive, and each participant will receive a finisher ribbon.

The Dick Lemen Run – High School Team Competition (5K) is a special division for high school teams competing for the annual Lemen Runner Award. Teams must have a minimum of 3 runners aged 14–18, with scoring based on the top 3 finishers per team. This is a competitive and community-focused high school team event within the 5K.

Last year, the 5K was temporarily held in Venice due to wildfire displacement. For 2026, both the 5K and 10K return to Pacific Palisades.