Every first Sunday in May, Spokane comes alive for Bloomsday — one of America's largest and most beloved timed road races. With 50,000+ participants filling the streets for a scenic 12-kilometer course through the heart of the city, it's part race, part festival, and 100% Spokane.
And 2026 is extra special: it's the 50th anniversary of the Bloomsday Run.
The History of Bloomsday
Bloomsday was founded in 1977 by Don Kardong, a Spokane native and Olympic marathoner. The first race attracted just over 1,000 runners. By year two, that number had grown to 5,000. By 1979, it was 10,000. At its peak in 1996, a staggering 61,298 people participated, making it one of the largest road races in the world.
The race is named after James Joyce's Ulysses — the events of which take place on June 16, known as "Bloomsday." It's now recognized as the eighth-largest single-distance road race in the United States, and it remains the defining community event of Spokane.
The Course
The 12K (7.46-mile) course takes runners through downtown Spokane, along the Spokane River, up the infamous "Doomsday Hill," and through some of the city's most scenic neighborhoods. It's a challenging but achievable distance — a perfect goal for both serious runners and casual joggers. Walkers are welcome too.
2026 — 50th Anniversary
Date: Sunday, May 3, 2026 Distance: 12 kilometers (7.46 miles) Registration: Opens January 1 at bloomsdayrun.org Early pricing: Increases April 1 ($38) and May 1 ($50) Note: No race-day registration — register online in advance Participants: 50,000+ expected for the anniversary
Why Stay at Manito Bungalow
Bloomsday weekend is one of the biggest travel weekends of the year in Spokane. Hotels fill up and prices surge. Manito Bungalow offers an ideal alternative — a beautiful home on the South Hill that sleeps up to 10, with a full kitchen for your pre-race pasta dinner and a washer/dryer for your post-race gear.
Our location on the South Hill means you're close to the race course without being in the traffic chaos of downtown. After the race, walk one block to Manito Park for a cool-down stroll, or head to Lumberbeard Brewing for a well-earned celebration beer.
This is the 50th anniversary — it's going to be a special one. Book Manito Bungalow Prefer a platform? Find us on VRBO or Airbnb. now before Bloomsday weekend fills up.