Kern Cancer Run/Walk and Festival
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Kern Cancer Run/Walk and Festival
The Kern Cancer Run/Walk and Festival is scheduled for September 12, 2026 at Riverwalk Park in Bakersfield, California. The event is an annual community fundraiser; 100% of funds benefit the Kern County Cancer Foundation to assist local patients with medical bills and transportation and to help children who must travel for treatment.
The event program includes multiple participant options and family activities:
- 5K timed run and untimed walk
- 1 mile survivor run and children's jog-a-thon option
Survivor registration is free; survivors may walk or run up to 5K and a designated survivor tent will be available with food and amenities for each survivor plus one guest, with guest wristbands handled at registration. Children ages 3 to 11 can take part in the jog-a-thon on a track; prizes are awarded for the most laps in age categories and some participants may cover less than a mile.
Early registration fees are listed at $10, increasing to $20 after March 31, 2026. Children’s registration is $10 for ages 3 to 11. Kern County Cancer Run/Walk T-shirts are available for purchase for $20 with an order deadline of August 30, 2026; additional shirts may be sold at the event. Donations are welcome.
Registered runners are timed and awards are given for race categories and top fundraisers. The festival also includes a vendor fair, live music, line dancing, a raffle, and a survivor social. Organizers note that attendees should be mindful of survivors’ immune systems and follow current public health guidance. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
