2026 Gresham Lilac Run
5K · 10K · Half Marathon
Run Vibes summary
AI-assistedAt a glance (AI-assisted text)
Support local Gresham beneficiaries by running a 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon at the 2026 Lilac Run, an event for all ages and abilities.
The vibe (AI-assisted text)
The Gresham Lilac Run is all about community and giving back, with race fees directly supporting local beneficiaries like Rockwood Market Hall and Magic Wheelchair. It's a welcoming event that brings together runners of all levels, from those tackling their first 5K to seasoned half marathoners. The atmosphere is likely supportive and encouraging, focused on collective achievement and charitable impact.
Best for (AI-assisted text)
This race is ideal for runners who want their miles to make a difference, supporting local Gresham organizations. It's also perfect for families, with a kids' run and multiple distances allowing everyone to participate. If you're looking for a spring event with a strong community feel, this is a great choice.
Race day (AI-assisted text)
Race day kicks off early on Saturday, April 18th, with the Half Marathon starting at 8:00 am, followed by the 10K at 8:15 am, and the 5K at 8:30 am. Packet pickup details aren't specified, but expect a smooth process given the event's focus on community. Course routes are helpfully linked with points of interest and aid station locations, suggesting a well-organized experience. The Little Lilac Run ensures a family-friendly vibe.
Personality (AI-assisted text)
The Gresham Lilac Run has a warm, community-focused personality, driven by its mission to support local beneficiaries. It feels inclusive and encouraging, welcoming runners from all walks of life, from serious half marathoners to casual 5K participants and kids. The event's tone is one of shared purpose and positive impact.
Weather snapshot (AI-assisted text)
Held in mid-April in Gresham, Oregon, runners can generally expect mild spring weather. While temperatures are usually pleasant for running, there's always a possibility of rain, so preparing for cooler, potentially damp conditions would be wise. It's a beautiful time of year for a run, with spring blooms likely.
Terrain & course feel (AI-assisted text)
Based on the distances offered (5K, 10K, Half Marathon) and the urban/suburban location of Gresham, OR, the courses are highly likely to be on paved roads. The linked routes on RideWithGPS and MapMyRun further suggest a road race. While specific elevation isn't detailed, expect typical city and neighborhood streets, which may include some gentle inclines and declines.
Signals we noticed (from listing text, AI-assisted)
- Race fees go to support our Race Beneficiaries
- 2026 Lilac Run Beneficiaries are: Rockwood Market Hall, Gresham Youth Advisory Council, Magic Wheelchair, Shooting Star Adventures
- 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Little Lilac Run (Kids Run) distances
- Race Day Information with start times
- Course routes linked via RideWithGPS and MapMyRun
- Email for waitlist: LilacRun@greshamoregon.gov
- Presented by Unitus Community Credit Union
- first_occurrence_year: 2025
This section is produced with AI from the listing we have on file—think of it as a quick orientation, not a rulebook. Organizers can update start times, courses, policies, and perks at any time, so when something really matters, please lean on their official race page for the latest. We don’t independently verify every detail against live organizer updates; we’re here to help you get a feel for the event and decide if you want to dig deeper.
Original listingFull description from sourceExpand the official listing text (unchanged)▾
Why Run THIS Race?
When you sign up for the Gresham Lilac Run presented by Unitus Community Credit Union, your race fees go to support our Race Beneficiaries who provide services within Gresham. The 2026 Lilac Run Beneficiaries are:
Rockwood Market Hall
Gresham Youth Advisory Council
Magic Wheelchair
Shooting Star Adventures
Waitlist:
To join the waitlist, email LilacRun@greshamoregon.gov. Please include full name and race distance.
Race Day Information
Saturday, April 18
8:00 am – Half Marathon
8:15 am – 10K
8:30 am – 5K
2026 course routes are linked above and include POI's that show directional support and aid station locations. Prefer MapMyRun? Last year's routes linked here: 5k / 10k / Half
Packet Pickup
Wednesday, April 15 and Thursday, April 16 from 4:00 - 6:30 pm at Migration Brewing's Gresham Brewery and Pub location.
18188 NE Wilkes Rd, Portland, OR 97230
*Need to arrange other accommodations? Email LilacRun@GreshamOregon.gov
FREE Little Lilac Run - 10:00am
The Little Lilac Run will be run in two heats, a 400-meter dash for the younger kids and an 800-meter dash for the older participants on the Springwater Corridor. Parents are welcome to run with kids, and they will be visible from the start/finish line.
Little Lilac Runners will be able to pick up their runner bibs on race day from the City of Gresham booth at 9am, they will not be available on the standard racer packet pickup days.
FAQ
Prepare for the Elements - The Half Marathon and 10k course take place on both paved trails / roads and dirt trails. Be prepared for mud and wet and keep an eye on the weather as the race approaches!
Trail Etiquette 101- Stay to the right and pass on the left. As you are running on the trails, be sure to keep to the right of the trails. We share this trail with the public, so please be cautious and courteous to all pedestrians and cyclists on the trails.
Street Crossing – ALL courses cross public roads. We will have volunteers at the major intersections keeping the crosswalk lights on for athletes, BUT ALWAYS BE CAUTIOUS AND ALERT. Half marathon and 10k runners, not all street crossings have crosswalk lights and volunteers—PLEASE BE AWARE and cross ALL roads with caution.
Emergencies – In the event of an emergency on the course, if you have your cell, please call 911. We will have an EMT/Paramedic at Main City Park available for any course emergencies. The water/snack stations are also equipped with first aid kits.
Dogs on the trail – Friendly pups who play well with others and are on a leash are allowed on the courses. Please be sure to start at the back of your race heat to avoid any trip hazards. Please also bring your own pup-poop bags to keep the trails clear for others.
Bibs – Bibs must be visible at the finish line to receive a finisher medal.
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Event Sponsorship
We are thrilled to host Unitus Community Credit Union for the Eighth year in a row as our presenting sponsor. A big thank you to Unitus Community Credit Union for making this event possible year after year!
Interested in sponsoring the Gresham Lilac Run? Please email Race Director Jake Ostrow at jake.ostrow@greshamoregon.gov
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