Upcoming Event: Vancouver Sun Run – April 21, 2024

We’re firmly of the opinion that leggings are not pants, but the one concession we make for tights is for the sake of running. We think they beat shorts, hands-down. But no matter where you sit on the controversial “tights vs. shorts” issue, we can all agree that the annual Vancouver Sun Run is worth lacing up your shoes for. Once again, the 2024 race will offer an energizing in-person event, as well as a virtual run for those who would rather stay away from the crowds.

Early on a Sunday morning in mid-April, over 40,000 people will line-up at The Vancouver Sun Run start line at Burrard and Georgia streets (less than six blocks from The Burrard), to run in Canada’s largest 10K road race! So why is the run so popular? Here’s our theory:

The course is beautiful. Heading through downtown, The Vancouver Sun Run’s course heads along Denman Street in the West End, before turning towards the historic Burrard Bridge into Kitsilano, then east through the False Creek neighbourhood. Runners cross back into downtown via the Cambie Street Bridge before ending at BC Place Stadium. Run this course and you’ll have Instagram fodder for weeks.

There’s something for all abilities. So you’re new to this running thing, but your friend is more of a Usain Bolt-type? No problem. The Vancouver Sun Run offers a wave-start based on your estimated finish time, meaning that pros start first and walkers go last. Want to run as a group? You just make sure that all of you enter the same estimated finish time – that of the slowest person. Prefer to avoid the crowds, or just run at a different time? Register for the Virtual Sun Run instead. Along with the 10K, there’s also a 2.5K Mini Sun Run – not just for the kiddos but open to anyone, and everyone is welcome at the celebration at BC Place at the end of the race.

It’s a great time of year. By mid-April, Vancouver is a riot of cherry blossoms, magnolias and rhododendrons. The weather is perfect for running, with average temperatures around the 13°C/55°F mark. Lots of out-of-town runners come to Vancouver for the run because it’s the perfect excuse for a weekend away.

Do we have you convinced yet? Register for The Vancouver Sun Run on the website, then check out our booking page to find a room.

Photo Credit: GoToVan via Flickr