Bakersfield Monster Mash Dash

Bakersfield Monster Mash Dash takes place in Bakersfield, California, in the heart of Kern County, on October 25, 2026. The main event is a 5K run/walk starting at 9:00 a.m., with a Little Monster Dash for younger athletes alongside it. Costumes are encouraged and there are individual and team awards, so you can chase a time or line up with family and treat it as a morning out. Proceeds support youth and family resource centers in Kern County.

As a road 5K it works equally well as a speed test or a relaxed community outing. Runners after a personal best can build with short intervals and a weekly long run over the six weeks before race day. If you are walking or running alongside kids, nothing more is needed than comfortable shoes and a costume you can actually move in.