Starting Block Winter Carnival 10k and 3k run 2026

The Starting Block Winter Carnival 10k and 3k run takes place on February 8, 2026 in the North Okanagan (Lavington Park / Coldstream, near Vernon). Presented by Endurance Health and Fitness with Mel Spooner as Race Director, the road race is staged as part of the Vernon Winter Carnival (this year marks the carnival's 66th edition) and appears on the Interior Running Association road-race calendar. Organizers note that the 10K course has been recently re-certified.

The event is a single-day, in-person road race offering a certified 10-kilometre main event and a shorter 3-kilometre fun run. The 10K starts at 10:00 AM and the 3K follows shortly after; race-day packet pick-up opens at the tennis courts in Lavington Park on Sunday morning, and an earlier packet pick-up is offered the day before for eligible registrants at The Starting Block in Vernon. Post-race awards and refreshments are held outside at Lavington Park.

What sets this race apart is its community-focused, grassroots feel tied to the Winter Carnival weekend. The 10K routes through flat-to-gently rolling rural-residential and agricultural countryside, while the 3K is an all-paved loop/out-and-back suited to families and recreational runners (note: there are no placings or awards for the 3K). Organizers plan hot beverages and soup after the finish and encourage participants to bring warm clothing, chairs, blankets and a mug — the event operates cup-free, so bring your own water cup.

Registration is online only and typically closes the evening before the race; packet pick-up windows, volunteer opportunities and current entry status are posted by the organizer on the official event page. Runners should plan for winter conditions on course and review packet-pickup rules if they plan to collect bibs on Saturday.