FAQ
April 18, 2026 - Seward Park, Seattle
What is the Cherry Blossom Run?
The Cherry Blossom Run is an annual running event in Seattle, celebrating the start of spring amongst the beauty of cherry blossoms. Participants can choose from a 5K, 10K, and half-marathon through Seward Park and along Lake Washington Boulevard.
When does the Cherry Blossom Run take place?
All events will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026.
-
5K - April 18 - 9:30AM - Check your wave time!
-
Sip N Stroll - April 18 - 10AM - arrive before 9:15 AM for on-site parking!!!
-
10K - April 18 - 8:00AM - Check your wave time!
-
Half - April 18 - 7:30AM - Check your wave time!
Where does the Cherry Blossom Run take place?
The run starts and finishes at Seward Park for all events.
What time does the race start?
Start times are as follows:
-
5K - 9:30am
-
Sip & Stroll - 10am
-
10K - 8am
-
Half-Marathon - 7:30am
HALF MARATHON WAVES:
Wave 1: 7:30 AM
Wave 2: 7:35 AM
Wave 3: 7:40 AM
Wave 4: 7:45 AM
10K WAVES:
Wave 1: 8:00 AM
Wave 2: 8:05 AM
Wave 3: 8:10 AM
Wave 4: 8:15 AM
5K WAVES:
Wave 1: 9:30 AM
Wave 2: 9:35 AM
Wave 3: 9:40 AM
Wave 4: 9:45 AM
Wave 5: 9:50 AM
Wave 6: 9:55 AM
Where do I park?
For 2026 prepaid parking will be available within the park itself! We highly encourage carpooling and using public transportation for those who can. Use the King County Metro Trip Planner to plan your trip. Additionally, there is vast parking available in the neighborhoods outside of the park, but please be sure to adhere to all parking laws. Please plan ahead!
Can I bring my...
Dog? Dogs are not-allowed. Due to strict USATF policies, no animals are allowed on the course.
Stroller? Strollers are allowed. You must start at the back of your wave. No strollers in wave 1!
Headphones? Headsets are also not allowed on the course due to USATF policies. Course marshals may request removal for safety reasons, and unsafe behavior may result in disqualification and removal from the course.
Will there be aid stations along the course?
Aid stations with water and Gatorade will be available for all runners.
Will there be gear check available on race day?
Yes, gear check will be available on race day near the start line. Participants will receive a gear check tag in their packet to securely label their belongings.
What happens after I finish the race?
After crossing the finish line you will receive your medal, participants can enjoy complimentary refreshments, including water and snacks, music, and a celebration area. Don’t forget to visit our vendors for swag and giveaways!
Are spectators allowed?
Of course! There are various spots around Seward Park for spectators to cheer on participants as well as our start and finish lines. Look for our signature Cherry Blossom Arch at the finish line for a great viewing experience and to meet root for your crew.
How do I register for the event?
You can click our registration buttons on this page or visit our RunSignup registration page to complete your registration.
What's included in my registration?
We have short sleeve shirts for 5K participants and long sleeve shirts for the 10K and half marathoners. You also receive a finisher medal according to the race you accomplished at the finish line.
Can I transfer my registration to someone else?
Yes, transfers are allowed up to two weeks before the event (no exceptions). You can make this change by managing your registration in your Run Signup profile.
Are refunds available if I can’t participate?
Due to upfront production costs, we do not offer refunds. However, you can defer your registration to the next year’s event for a fee or transfer it to another runner of your choosing. The option to defer ends two weeks prior to the event. No exceptions.
When and where is Packet Pickup?
Packet pickup is mandatory and will be hosted in the days prior to the event at Road Runner Sports locations. The locations are as follows:
•Seattle: Saturday, April 11 AND Thursday, April 16 from noon to 7pm at Road Runner Sports, 7020 Woodlawn Ave NE, Seattle
•Bellevue: Due to parking and logistical issues, NO BELLEVUE PPU going forward. We apologize for any inconvenience!
•Kent: Friday, April 17, 12p-7p at Road Runner Sports, 444 Ramsay Way Suite 114, Kent
If you chose to have your packet shipped to you packets will ship out the week of 4/6.
Is there Packet Pickup on race day?
Due to the size of our race, we CAN NOT offer packet pickup on race day. If you are unable to make the designated pickup dates, we offer shipping for a fee, or friends or family can pick up on your behalf at the packet pickup locations as long as they have your QR code.
Can I pick up packets for other participants?
Yes, you can pick up packets for other participants. You will need their QR code or registration confirmation. There will be two lines: one for groups of 3+ and one for 1-2 people. If picking up for three or more participants, please expect longer wait times.
Is the event-chip timed?
Yes, the Cherry Blossom Run is chip-timed. All timing will start once the participant crosses the start line. Make sure those bibs are visible!
Will there be pacers?
Yes! We have pacers for both the half marathon and 10K. Pacing times are as follows:
Half: 1:40, 1:50, 2:00, 2:10, 2:20, 2:30, and 3:00
10K: 7 min/mile, 8, 9, 10, and 11.
Can I volunteer for the event?
Absolutely! Volunteers are essential to the success of the event. Visit our volunteer page for more information and to sign up.
How can I stay updated on event news?
Follow us on social media or subscribe to our email newsletter for the latest updates.
Who can I contact for additional questions?
For further inquiry, fill out the form at the bottom of this page or email us directly at info@seattlecherryblossomrun.com.