Lace Up in Wellen Park: Half Marathon & 5K Fun for Everyone

Race day in Wellen Park® is pure energy, with cheering neighbors lining the streets and runners taking on a course that winds through the community. The Wellen Park Half Marathon & 5K welcomes runners and walkers of all levels, making it one of the most fun and inclusive races in Southwest Florida. Lace up, join the excitement, and keep reading to see why this event is a must on the Wellen Park calendar of events.

Race Day Experience at Wellen Park

From the moment the sun rises over Downtown Wellen Park, race day feels electric. Music fills the air, neighbors line the streets with handmade signs, and runners gather at the starting line buzzing with anticipation. Whether you’re tackling the half marathon or enjoying the 5K, this isn’t just another Venice FL race, it’s a full community celebration. Expect smooth, scenic paths, wide-open stretches perfect for pacing, and plenty of cheering sections to keep your momentum strong.

Presented by Hotwire Communications, join us on March 21, 2026 at 7:30 am for a Southwest FL race that feels equal parts challenge and celebration and one you don’t want to miss. Sign up now and secure your spot at the starting line!

Half Marathon vs. 5K: Something for Every Runner

The 4th Annual Wellen Park Half Marathon & 5K is designed for everyone, from seasoned runners chasing a personal best to families, walkers, and first-time participants. Both races start and finish in the heart of Downtown Wellen Park, giving runners a front-row view of the community’s charm, vibrant streets, and beautifully landscaped neighborhoods.

The half marathon course is flat, fully paved, and USATF certified, with clearly marked paths, aid stations every two miles, and split timing at 10K, perfect for those looking to challenge themselves while enjoying Southwest Florida scenery. For a shorter but equally enjoyable option, the 5K offers a fun, accessible experience for walkers, strollers, and even leashed dogs, ensuring everyone can join the excitement safely and comfortably.

Half marathon map

5K map

Be sure to check out the race map (click here for the interactive half marathon map and click here for the interactive 5K map) to plan your race day strategy.

Beyond the run itself, a portion of proceeds and all donations benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Suncoast, so each stride supports a meaningful cause. Whether you’re aiming for a personal record or simply soaking in the atmosphere, this Wellen Park race promises an inclusive, energizing experience, making it a favorite on the Wellen Park calendar of events.

More Than a Race: Make a Day of It

One of the best parts of this race? The experience doesn’t end at the finish line. After you cross, grab a handcrafted coffee at Foxtail Coffee Co., enjoy a relaxed bite at Oak & Stone, or stop by any of Wellen Park’s best restaurants—all near the action in Downtown Wellen.

Out-of-town runners can turn race day into a refreshing getaway, complete with the stunning Gulf Coast beaches, charming local boutiques, and countless things to explore near Venice. As one of the area’s most anticipated events, this event showcases the energy and beauty of Wellen Park, giving you every reason to make it more than just a race. 

Community Energy & Why You’ll Love Running This Race

What truly sets this Wellen Park event apart is the people. From enthusiastic volunteers at every aid station to neighbors cheering from the sidelines, the support feels personal from start to finish. Local partners, community groups, and families all show up, creating an atmosphere that’s welcoming, encouraging, and full of heart.

As you make your way through the Wellen Park half marathon or head toward the finish of the Wellen Park 5K, the crowd’s energy keeps you moving. High-fives, encouraging signs, and nonstop cheers turn every mile into something memorable. 

Runners return year after year for that feeling, the connection, the motivation, and the sense of accomplishment that lasts long after race day, a true part of the Wellen lifestyle.

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