Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Run
Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Run: flat course, small field, giant pumpkin festival.
Race Date
Oct 18, 2026
Location
Half Moon Bay, CA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, October 18, 2026
- Location
- Half Moon Bay, California
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 575
Highlights
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
The Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Run is a small but growing half marathon that takes place during the World Pumpkin Capital's signature Art & Pumpkin Festival. With roughly 200 finishers and runners from about five states, this low-key event offers a flat course through the historic Main Street area, making it a welcoming choice for first-timers or those seeking a fast, low-pressure race.
The course itself is pancake-flat, winding through the charming streets of Half Moon Bay as the town buzzes with festival energy. Fall colors and the scent of pumpkin spice fill the air, while the cool coastal climate — typically in the 50s and 60s — provides ideal running conditions. About 20% of runners return year after year, a testament to the friendly, community-focused atmosphere.
The real reward awaits at the finish: the world-famous festival, with free admission, live music, pumpkin-themed food, and a genuine small-town celebration. For runners looking to combine a personal best with a festive weekend getaway, this is a hidden gem on the California coast.
Race-provided description
The world-famous Half Moon Bay Art & Pumpkin Festival is the season’s signature event, drawing hordes of visitors to the “World Pumpkin Capital” for an epic festival on historic Main Street. This year’s highly-anticipated 52nd annual festival will be held on October 19-20 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free.
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Small Town
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Standout644 years running
~195 finishers a year
growing or steady
20% returning runners
2 timing sources · 8 photos
runners from 5 states
winner 1:13:08
typical high 70°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
52°
Afternoon (High)
70°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.0"
Precipitation
8 mph
Wind
75%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 575 finishers actually crossed the line across 4 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
575
Median time
2:08:08
Latest turnout
200
States
13
Turnout by year
2020–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Run?
The Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Run was held on Sunday, October 18, 2026.
Where does the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Run take place?
It takes place in Half Moon Bay, California.
What distances does the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Run course flat and good for a PR?
The Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Run is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Run?
HalfRuns has finish records for 575 runners who have completed the Half Moon Bay Pumpkin Run.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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