Capitol Peak

2026 marks the 50th Anniversary of the Olympia Lakefair Races, which include the Jerry Miller Half Marathon, an 8K and a 3K including free entry for Kids 14 and under; taking runners on routes that circle around the town of Olympia and beyond into Tumwater and Thurston County.

Both the 3K and 8K start and finish on 5th Avenue in front of Heritage Park. They both circle Capitol Lake, with the 8K continuing into Tumwater Historical Park before returning. Both are flat and fast courses.

The Jerry Miller Half Marathon heads briefly through downtown Olympia, then along the Woodland Trial and Chehalis Western Trail biking paths. The course continues on rural streets and a short trail and tour of Squaxin Park before heading back along East Bay Drive and running through downtown Olympia to the finish line in front of Heritage Park. Runners will enjoy tree-lined trails and scenic landscapes while enjoying flat and narrow paved trails throughout.

Once runners have completed the course, there is an awards ceremony with several raffle awards as well as age group award up to 90+ for all three races. Participants, family and friends can then enjoy festival activities that are held all around Heritage Park including food and beer tents, carnival rides, booths, a parade and more.

The Valley Athletic Club is proud to be the 2026 Presenting Sponsor. The Olympia Lakefair Races are brought to you by the Lake Run Organization and the Rotary Club of Olympia, and benefit local public High School Cross Country and Track programs and Rotary Club of Olympia Scholarship and Grant recipients.

See you July 18, 2026!

STOMP OUT THE STIGMA is all about raising awareness of mental wellness and eliminating the stigma surrounding mental illness. Join us in the fastest, flat 5k route in the area or a nice 1 mile race around Waughop Lake. Parking will be easy at the Pierce College Fort Steilacoom campus with a short walk down a trail to Fort Steilacoom Park. The 5k race starts by the lake where you will fly through a flat course at Fort Steilacoom Park and finish back at the entrance of the lake. The 1mile race starts at the entrance of Waughop Lake and takes you on a scenic lap around the lake. Both routes are mostly paved with a short area that is dirt/gravel. This 5k race is chip timed. The entry includes a race shirt if you register by 7/21. Finishing medals will be given to the first 200 finishers. Don't miss the chance to be a part of this great event!

Sorry… no strollers or dogs at the event because of the insurance restrictions.