Polar Bear Run 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon by Califlow Runs

🐻‍❄️ Polar Bear Run
5K • 10K • Half Marathon
📍 Long Beach, CA
📅 January 18, 2026

Brace yourself for crisp air, cool miles, and that brrr-but-worth-it January energy. The Polar Bear Run is a winter tradition for runners who don’t hibernate — they layer up, show up, and earn their miles the cold way. ❄️

Cold mornings. Clear skies. Strong strides. This is winter running at its best.

 
❄️ What’s Included
✔ Professional Chip Timing for accurate results
📸 Free Race Photos – download and share your frosty finish
🎖️ Finisher Medal for All Participants
🏆 Overall & Age Group Awards
💧 Three On-Course Water Stations
🎉 Finish Line Party with music and high vibes

 
🧤 Who Can Participate?
All are welcome — runners, walkers, stroller athletes, and all paces.
Whether you’re chasing a PR or just chasing warmth at the finish line, this run is for you.

 
🕒 Bib Pick-Up & Start Times
Bib Pick-Up/ Same Day Registration:
6:00 AM – 7:30 AM
📍 Race Ready Athletics Tent

Start Times:
🏁 Half Marathon – 7:00 AM
🏁 5K & 10K – 7:30 AM

 
📍 Start Location
5400 E Ocean Blvd
Long Beach, CA 90803

 
🚗 Parking
• Free street parking available
• Beach lot parking available for $2.00 per hour (pay at machines)

 
🏆 Awards
Top 3 Overall Men & Women in each distance

🎤 Podium Ceremonies:
Overall Winners : 9:15 AM

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions :
 
Course Time Limit:
Our course has a time limit of 3 hours and 25 minutes. 
 
Early Start:
Early Starts are by request only. You may set up a 6:30 AM early start by replying to your race confirmation email. This will give you a generous 3:55 minutes to finish! Be aware that starting early excludes you from placing in awards. To be eligible for prizes you must start simultaneously as everyone else. 
 
Course Information:
Always give pedestrians the right of way and stay on the pedestrian side of the beach path.
Strava Maps can be found under course information Califlowruns.com
 
Is the course paved?
Yes! Our Santa Monica and Long Beach courses follow the beach path ( paved walk way) , while our park locations follow the park sidewalks. Unless we are a one of our trail locations (dirt path)  locations you will always have a nice smooth surface to run on.
 
Event Timing:
All events are manually timed (Gun Timed). So, please be sure to wear your bib on the front of your body. If we can;t see your number, we can't record your finish time. 
 
Gear Check:
You may store personal items at the Race Ready Tents.  Please bring a bag or backpack to store your personal items in.
 
What do I get?
Every participant receives a medal. Downloadable race photos will be available the following day.  We offer a variety of yummy finish-line snacks and drinks. We have a live D.J, plus two fully stocked water stations on course. 
 
Are there awards?
YES!! The top 3 males and females in each distance. They will receive a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place medal. 
Award ceremony times will be posted on the bulletin board at the event.
 
Refunds and Transfers:
No refunds, so please be sure to spend a couple of extra bucks from the race insurance. Life happens and we understand. However, you may only receive a refund through the insurance. 
We do allow you to transfer to another CaliFlow Run
 
Bib Pick-Up and Start Times:
  Bib Pick Up: 6AM 
Bib Pick Up ends: at 7:40 AM
7:00 AM Half Marathon Begins
7:30 AM 5K, 10K begins
 
-Please note that everyone will start together at the designated race time. This is not a flexible start; you cannot begin your run at a later time. All participants must be ready to go at the official start time to ensure a smooth and fair event for everyone.
 
Parking:
Pay machines can be found on all beach lots. Our park locations will charge a nominal fee per car upon entry.
 
Rain Policy:
At CaliFlow Runs, we embrace the elements! Rain or shine, the race is on. Pack a poncho, bring your energy, and let's run in the rain! Enjoy the miles, smiles, and badass rainy-day race pictures! 
 
Headphone and Hydration Pack Policy:
Headphones are allowed, but keep the volume low to stay aware of your surroundings. Hydration packs and belts are also welcome.
 
Are walkers allowed?
Absolutely! CaliFlow Runs welcomes all runners, walkers, and strollers. CaliFlow is an all-inclusive race. Runners, Walkers, Jogger, Yoggers are ALL WELCOME
 
Upgrade or Downgrade Distance?
Yes! You can change your event before or during the race. Just let us know at bib pick-up or after the race so your time and distance can be properly recorded.
 
Course Marking and Water Stations:
Have NO Fear! our courses are well-marked with a variety of methods so you don't miss the turnaround point.
 
Are Strollers Allowed?
Yes! Stroller runners are welcome, and there's no need to register your child. Just keep your bib visible.
 
Are children allowed to run?
Yes! We love seeing young runners on the course. If your child wants a medal they must be a registered participant. 
 
Do children need to register?
 
If they're in a stroller, no. If they're running, yes—they need to be registered. 
 
Results and Photos:
 
Results and photos will be available on RunSignUp by 7 PM on race day. You'll receive an email with links to check photos and results within 24 hours of the event.
 
Same Day Registration:
 
Yes, race day registration is available for $40. You can pay with Cash, Venmo, Zelle, ApplePay, Paypal, Square 
 
Pacers and Unregistered Runners:
 
Only registered runners can pace. Bandits (unregistered runners) will be removed from the course.
 
Volunteering Perks:
 
Volunteer and enjoy snacks, coffee, and free entry to a future CaliVibe Runs event!