Worst Day of the Year Run (Awaiting 2028 Race Date)

Course Highlights

The Worst Day of the Year Run takes place at McMenamins Edgefield, the legendary Portland-area resort and entertainment compound in Troutdale, Oregon. The course consists of 1.55-mile laps on packed gravel paths with short, rolling hills and stunning views of the Columbia River and Mount Hood. Two laps make a perfect 5K. With optional chip timing, runners can track their results while embracing the celebration atmosphere.

Race Details

Held each February — the worst month for weather in the Pacific Northwest — this event gleefully celebrates the rain, wind, and cold that many runners dread. The race is limited to 1,500 participants. Every runner receives a Columbia Sportswear winter hat, finisher medal, and access to a green-screen photo studio. The post-race party at Edgefield features homemade soup from McMenamins’ kitchens — the perfect recovery meal after a muddy winter run.

Why Runners Love It

The costume creativity at Worst Day of the Year Run is unmatched in Pacific Northwest racing. From absurdist rain-gear art installations to elaborate group costumes, the event is as much a community celebration as a race. McMenamins Edgefield provides one of Oregon’s most unique venues — a sprawling historic poor farm turned hotel, brewery, and entertainment complex. Prizes are awarded in a raucous costume contest after the run.

Race-Weekend Tips

Register early — this race sells out fast despite (or because of) its terrible weather. Embrace the conditions; a costume over your running gear is warmly expected and judged. The McMenamins campus offers on-site lodging, multiple restaurants, and a brewery, making it easy to turn the event into a weekend getaway. Check RunSignup for 2027 registration dates.

Embrace the worst and run it anyway — register at RunSignup.