Ring in the New Year with purpose—and a final finish line! CaliFlow Runs presents the Last Dash Before Midnight along Long Beach’s iconic shoreline. Set to gorgeous sunrise views, this out‑and‑back course offers 5K, 10K, and half-marathon lengths, all starting bright and early to give runners ample time before midnight.
The half marathon begins at 7:00 AM PST, with a generous 3h 25m cutoff, and follows a flat, paved route hugging the Pacific coast . Expect mild ocean breezes, unobstructed sunrises, and constant scenic motivation—”take in the stunning Long Beach coastline and finish the year strong,” as the event description says.
Participants enjoy a festive, communal atmosphere: music at the start, a commemorative medal, themed backdrops for photos, and post-race refreshments to toast the end of 2024. Though primarily a fun and celebratory event, the USATF-certified, flat layout also makes it a good choice for runners chasing a late-season personal best.
What sets this race apart is its timing and vibe: it’s one of the few events to bookend the year with a run that’s as celebratory as it is scenic. With light crowding and a supportive community energy, it offers a low-stress, high-fun experience that balances performance with party spirit.
