42nd Annual Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk
Date: Friday, September 25, 2026
A benefit event for local nonprofits supporting both kids and families and local independent journalism. Register today to support your local nonprofits.
Start Times
- 5:30 p.m. — Venue, sponsor booths and registration open
- 7:00 p.m. — 5K Walk (Not Timed)
- 8:15 p.m. — 10K Run (Timed)
- 8:30 p.m. — 5K Run (Timed)
Water Stops
- 5K — at mid-point
- 10K — at miles 2 and 4.5
Course Maps
View on MapMyRun.com: 5K course map | 10K course map
Results & Awards
Medals for first-, second- and third-place finishers in each division will be handed out on race night after all races have finished.
Virtual Option Available
This year's Palo Alto Weekly Moonlight Run & Walk will be offered in person and virtually! For more details on the virtual option, click the "Virtual Participation" option when registering.
General Information
No Refunds: As a charity event, we are not able to give refunds. However, if your plans change, you may transfer your registration to a friend or family member. The deadline to gift your entry to a friend or family member is September 17th. To do so, follow these steps: (1) log in to your Runsignup account (or click on "manage my entry" on your confirmation email) (2) within your account, navigate to your race entry/manage registration (3) select 'transfer to another runner' and fill in the required info of the recipient (first name, last name, email address). There is both a written and video tutorial for this process posted here.
Changing Your Race Distance: If after registering, you would like to change your race distance (e.g. from the 10K Run to the 5K Run), you may make this adjustment within your Runsignup account. To do so, follow these steps: (1) log in to your runsignup account (or click on "manage my entry" on your confirmation email) (2) within your account, navigate to your race entry / manage registration (3) select 'Transfer to Another Event" and then select the new event. There is both a written and video tutorial for this process posted here. The deadline to make adjustments is September 29th at 11:59 pm. After this time, adjustments must be made on race night at the Problems and Solutions / Information tent.
Moonlight Run Shirts
Each registration completed before October 1st includes a free long-sleeve Moonlight Run shirt (while supplies last) and race bib, both of which can be picked up at check-in on the day of the event. Shirt sizes and availability are not guaranteed, and we encourage you to arrive early on race night for the best selection.
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.
- 7:00 PM – 5K Walk (unchanged)
- 8:15 PM – 10K Run (previously 8:25 PM)
- 8:30 PM – 5K Run (previously 8:15 PM)
The 10K course has been updated this year. View the new map HERE.
NEW: Visit our merch booth!
Stop by the merch booth to purchase:
- Moonlight Run posters
- Moonlight Run t-shirts
- Tote bags
- Stickers
- Memberships to Palo Alto Online (and any of our other publications)
All proceeds support local journalism. Reminder: No cash is accepted on site. Please bring a card or mobile payment.
Safety Protocol
Headlamps are highly recommended for all runs.
Parking and Logistics
Race check-in, sponsor and race headquarters booths, first aid and food/water are on the infield of the Baylands Athletic Center, located at the end of Geng Rd. We recommend arriving at least an hour before your event. Police and volunteers will direct you to parking in nearby business lots off Embarcadero Rd. and E. Bayshore Rd. Please do not park in the Stanford Eye Clinic lot. Limited checking of small personal bags & backpacks is available. Dogs are permitted on the 5K walk but not on the runs. No retractable leashes. Bring your own clean-up bag. Jogging strollers are welcome on the 5k walk or at the back of the runs.