Over 2,000 runners to experience Santa Ynez Valley for annual Mother’s Day Weekend Running Tradition
Solvang, California – May 7, 2025 – Experience the magic of the Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Marathon, returning for its 18th edition on Saturday, May 10, 2025.
Dubbed “The Most Magical Half Marathon,” the event is not just a race but a fairy tale journey through the heart of the scenic Santa Ynez Valley. Runners will navigate a challenging 13.1-mile course adorned with windmills and flower-bedded vineyards, culminating in a post-race Wine & Music Festival at the finish line. The Mother’s Day weekend tradition is the perfect excuse for a fairy tale weekend getaway.
“We are excited to host another edition of the Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Marathon and deliver a magical experience to thousands of runners in May,” said Race Director Randolph Garcia. “Whether you are running the 13.1 miles, participating in a two-person relay, or cheering from the sidelines, everyone is invited to enjoy a weekend of fitness, wine, and celebration.”
As an official community partner, Chumash Casino Resort‘s support of the event reflects their commitment to the community and culture of the region. This partnership promises to again deliver an unforgettable experience in the scenic Santa Ynez Valley, where runners will traverse a course that celebrates the region’s rich viticultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
“We are proud to support this world-class event and be part of this annual tradition that showcases the best of the Santa Ynez Valley,” said Bill Peters, Chief Operations Officer for the Chumash Casino Resort. “This race attracts elite athletes to the area, promotes a healthy lifestyle and supports our local businesses throughout the weekend.”
Set against the backdrop of rolling hills and lush vineyards, the USATF-certified half-marathon route starts in the charming Danish town of Solvang. Runners will pass by 12 renowned wineries, making their way along a 13.1-mile course that showcases the natural beauty of the region.
Following the race, participants and guests can indulge in the Wine & Music Festival at Solvang Park, featuring tastings from over a dozen local wineries, complemented by a selection of craft beers and artisanal foods, set to the tune of live music performances.
The race weekend begins with a Garden Party and packet pickup on Friday, May 9 at 1:00pm, where runners can gather their race materials and explore the latest in wellness products and services. The expo and festival are open to the public, emphasizing the celebratory spirit of a big event weekend.
For more information about the event or to register for the event, visit www.santabarbarawinehalf.com
About the Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Marathon
The Santa Barbara Wine Country Half Marathon features a scenic course that starts and finishes in downtown Solvang. Runners will begin the 13.1-mile journey amid the windmills and Danish bakeries along the streets of Solvang, then run along the hills, vineyards and pass 12 wineries before finishing on Copenhagen Drive adjacent to Solvang Park. After crossing the finish line, participants are invited to join family and friends to relax and sip wines from over a dozen local wineries at the post-race Wine & Music Festival. Runners can also choose the two-person half-marathon relay option for a shorter run that includes the wine tasting. Event weekend kicks off Friday, May 9, with a Garden Party and Packet Pickup, 1- 7:00pm in downtown Solvang. The expo is open to the public as a variety of exhibitors will showcase wellness products for sample and sale. All race participants pick up their race number and t-shirt at the expo. For more information or to register for the half-marathon or two-person relay, visit santabarbarawinehalf.com.
About Chumash Casino Resort
Located on Highway 246 in Santa Ynez, California, the Chumash Casino Resort is owned and operated by the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians. The casino’s gaming floor is open 24/7 and features 2,300 slot machines, dozens of table games, bingo, poker, daily cash and prize giveaways, The Sports Bar at Chumash and Willows, a AAA Four Diamond-rated restaurant. In addition to owning and operating the Chumash Casino Resort on the tribe’s reservation, the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians also owns two Solvang-area hotels – Corque Hotel and The Hadsten Solvang, a Tapestry Collection by Hilton. As the largest employer in the Santa Ynez Valley, the tribe employs over 2,000 residents of Santa Barbara County. For more information, visit https://chumashcasino.com.