2026 Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk
Palo Alto's only moonlight half marathon, through Baylands under the stars.
Expected Race Date
~Sep 2026
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Palo Alto, CA
Quick facts
- Date
- around September 2026 (expected)
- Location
- Palo Alto, California
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Atmosphere
The Experience
The Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk is a beloved community tradition, now in its 41st year. Each October, roughly 130 runners gather at the Palo Alto Baylands for a night-time half marathon that feels both intimate and electric. The flat, fast course winds through the preserve's paved paths, offering glimpses of the glittering bay under the moonlight.
With about 15% of participants returning year after year and runners coming from as many as five states, this race has built a loyal following. The family-friendly atmosphere extends to a 5K and 10K, and the post-race party—complete with local food and festivities—wraps up the evening. Though the half marathon is on hiatus for 2025 due to construction, it will return in 2026, and the spirit of this unique night race remains strong.
Race-provided description
[image: https://i0.wp.com/www.paloaltoonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Moonlight-Run-2025-Banner.jpg?resize=1200%2C351&ssl=1]
A benefit event for local nonprofits supporting both kids and families and local independent journalism
Get ready for the 2025 Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk presented by the City of Palo Alto.
Our 41st anniversary event will take place on October 3, 2025 at the Palo Alto Baylands.
This family-friendly race offers a 5K Walk, 5K Run, and 10K Run.
See 2025 Race Results Here (https://results.changeofpace.com/results.aspx?CId=16356&RId=6152)
What’s changed for 2025?
No half marathon Due to construction along the route, the half marathon will not be held this year. We recommend trying the 10K instead. The half marathon will return in 2026 once construction is complete.
Updated race start times We’ve made a few small adjustments to start times for 2025. Please note:
7:00 PM – 5K Walk (unchanged)
8:15 PM – 10K Run (previously 8:25 PM)
8:30 PM – 5
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Coastal
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Solid Pick506 years running
~129 finishers a year
growing or steady
15% returning runners
limited extras
runners from 5 states
winner 1:16:48
typical high 78°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
58°
Afternoon (High)
78°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.0"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
70%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk?
The 2026 Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around September 2026 (expected).
Where does the 2026 Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk take place?
It takes place in Palo Alto, California.
What distances does the 2026 Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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