17th Annual Mardi Gras Madness 5K/10K!

17th Annual Mardi Gras Madness 5K/10K! Valencia, California, United States - Sunday, February 28, 2027
Race day in the heart of Valencia promises a delightful blend of community spirit and natural beauty. The event will kick off early on Saturday, February 27th, with early packet pickup at Canyon Club Courtyard from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. On race morning, expect a mix of overcast skies and mild temperatures, ideal for those who prefer cooler conditions. With an average temperature of 11.4°C on the day, runners should prepare with layers that can be easily adjusted as they move through the course.
The Junior Chamber International of Santa Clarita (JCI) and the Santa Clarita Track Club have been organizing this event since its inception in 2011, making it a beloved fixture in Valencia's calendar. This year marks the 17th edition, with thousands of participants expected to take part, raising funds for JCI Santa Clarita and Students Off And Running (SOAR). SOAR provides local youth aged 14-18 with free training experiences leading up to the Los Angeles Marathon.
Course & Conditions
The Mardi Gras Madness course is a USATF-certified route that winds through Valencia's scenic landscapes. It features rolling terrain, including sections along the South Fork River Trail and an equestrian dirt trail from Mile 3.25 to Mile 4.85 for the 10K runners. The surface conditions are firm but slightly soft due to typical winter rains in February.
Start/finish at Valencia Town Center will be bustling with excitement, complete with chip timing, custom finisher medals, and marathon-quality tech shirts. Along the way, runners can expect aid stations every two kilometers for hydration and nutrition. Special features include a beer garden and live entertainment that continue well into the afternoon festivities post-race.

Logistics
Register online at https://runsignup.com/Race/CA/Valencia/MGM5K before February 27th to secure your spot in this family-friendly run/walk event. Fees vary by distance, with a $40 fee for Mini Madness 1K and $65 each for the Mardi Gras Madness 10K and 5K distances.
Bib pickup is available early on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Canyon Club Courtyard (rear entrance near H&M), Valencia Town Center. Please bring a valid ID to receive your race materials, including the 2027 Beer Garden wristband for those who wish to partake in the post-race celebration.
The starting point is located at 24201 West Valencia Blvd, and participants must be aged 13 or older to run. First-timers are encouraged to arrive early on race day; they can check-in from 6:30 AM onwards for a smooth start to their journey with Mardi Gras Madness.
Closing
With the 17th Annual Mardi Gras Madness 5K/10K, Valencia, California, United States - Sunday, February 28, 2027, comes an opportunity not just to run but to support local initiatives and connect with a vibrant community. This event matters because it brings together families, friends, and runners of all ages in the pursuit of health and fitness while making a significant impact on young lives through SOAR's programs.