The 5th annual Strawberry Jam 1K/5K Fun Run/Walk coordinated by the Friends of Watsonville Parks will kick-off the Watsonville Strawberry Festival on Saturday August 1st, 2026. The Jam begins and ends at the temporary location, Landmark Elementary School in Watsonville while Ramsay Park is being renovated. This is an easy and fun course that includes Watsonville’s beautiful slough system with an out and back section on Ohlone Parkway. No dogs please, but families and strollers are welcome. Register on Active.com. Races will be coordinated by the Santa Cruz Track Club.
The Jam is being held in conjunction with The Watsonville Strawberry Festival, held on Saturday, August 1, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, August 2, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. in historic downtown Watsonville. https://www.watsonville.gov/1117/Watsonville-Strawberry-Festival1
Male and Female Categories
19 and Under
20-29
30-39
40-49
50-59
60-69
70-79
80+
DarylWise1@gmail.com for any questions.
Check-in on race day begins at 6:45 am at Landmark Elementary School parking lot. The Kids 1K Fun Run/Walk begins promptly at 7:45 am. Parents are welcome to join and guide their kids through the 1K run. The 5k Fun Run/Walk will follow for those of ages 12+ starting at 8am. There will be portable restrooms and water stations available on day of race. Look out for designated guides who will be stationed at various points throughout the race to ensure the designated course is easy to follow. Costumes are encouraged!!
There is limited parking at Landmark Elementary School. Experienced Runners: are encouraged to warm up by parking at the Ramsay Park Nature Center Parking Lot at on HARKINS SLOUGH ROAD and warming up on .5 mile path to race. A race volunteer will direct runners to path to race site. Please see image for pathway from Nature Center to Landmark Elementary School.
$40 until 07/30/2025
$45 after 07/30/2025
Ribbons will be awarded to top 3 in each category. All 1K racers will receive a ribbon for participating. 1st-3rd ribbons will be given to boys and girls top runners.
Strawberry-themed socks will be given to all pre-registrants over age 12. Socks may be available on race day but are not guaranteed for day of race registrants.