CHEER ON YOUR RUNNER

Your support makes every finish line moment unforgettable. Here is everything you need to be the best spectator on course.

Game Plan

RACE DAY OVERVIEW

What to expect when you come out to support your runner.

Your Day as a Spectator

Race day is an incredible experience for everyone, not just the runners. The energy at our events is electric, and your cheers make a real difference. Runners consistently tell us that spectator support is what got them through the tough miles.

Our events take place at scenic venues across Alameda, from the waterfront paths of Alameda Point to the historic USS Hornet. Arrive early, grab a good spot, and get ready to cheer your heart out.

Each event has a finish line festival with food, music, and celebration. After cheering on course, head to the finish to welcome your runner home.

60 min before
Arrive early. Secure parking and find your viewing spot before the crowds.
30 min before
Find the start line. Cheer your runner off at the beginning of their race.
Race start
Cheer loud! Move to your on-course viewing spot.
Mid-race
Make signs, ring cowbells. Your energy fuels the runners.
Finish
Welcome them home. Head to the finish area for the celebration.
On Course

BEST VIEWING SPOTS

Viewing Spots Coming Soon

Best viewing spots will be shared as race day approaches. Check back closer to event day for specific locations, maps, and access tips.

Start / Finish
Mid-Course
Turnaround
Be Prepared

SPECTATOR ESSENTIALS

Everything you need to know to have a great experience on race day.

Parking & Transit

Ample parking is available at each race venue. Most events are located at Alameda Point with large free parking lots nearby. Check the specific event page for detailed directions and parking maps.

What to Bring

  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Water bottle
  • Camera or phone
  • Cowbell or noisemaker
  • Homemade signs
  • Layers (Bay Area mornings are chilly)

Race Day Schedule

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the race start. This gives you time to park, find a great viewing spot, and cheer your runner at the starting line. Check each event page for exact start times and schedules.

Cheering Tips & Rules

  • Cheer loudly -- runners love it
  • Use your runner's name on signs
  • Stay behind course barriers
  • Do not hand items to runners on course
  • Keep pets leashed and away from the course
  • Follow volunteer and marshal instructions

Food & Drink

Food trucks and water stations are available at the finish line festival. Grab coffee and a snack while you wait, and be ready to celebrate with your runner when they cross the finish line.

Post-Race Meetup

Find your runner at the finish line festival area. After crossing the finish, runners will pass through the finisher chute and receive their medal. Look for the designated meetup area near the festival stage.

Event Specific

TIPS BY EVENT

Event-specific spectator information will be added as each race day approaches.

Hospital Foundation Spring Run

Spectator guide coming soon

Parade 5K Run

Spectator guide coming soon

Island Running Festival

Spectator guide coming soon

Halloween Twilight 5K

Spectator guide coming soon

Midway Shelter 5K & 10K

Spectator guide coming soon

Inspired by Watching?

Start with our Parade 5K -- it is the perfect first race. Flat, fast, fun, and right along the July 4th parade route.

Sign Up for the Parade 5K