Big Fun Run Series Runs

Metro Vancouver’s Big Fun Run Series running events include the Big Jungle Run, Big Easter Run, Big Superhero Run, Big Pirate Run and Big Elf Run.

In 2023 there will likely one other event as well, although exact details are to be confirmed.

TIP: If you use the promo code VBP10 you can save 10% on any of the events in the series in 2023!

To register for a run, visit the series’ official website at bigfunrunseries.com.

Big Fun Run Series Events in 2023

Big Fun Run Series events are family-friendly runs that take place in different locations and with different themes. Each event features runs of varying distances, from 1 km up to 15 km, or in one case up to 21.1 km.

The events aren’t super competitive. Instead, they’re all about having fun. Most routes are wheelchair, stroller and pet-friendly. Many participants dress up to fit the theme of each event. Registration typically includes a special accessory of some kind in addition to a finishers medal and the chance to win prizes. With each run there is a different charitable beneficiary too.

The events each year include the Big Jungle Run in Burnaby and Big Easter Run at Vancouver’s Jericho Beach in the spring. In the summer there is the Big Superhero Run in Richmond and in autumn there is the Big Pirate Run in Steveston Village. Ending the year is the Big Elf Run at Stanley Park in December.

Big Jungle Run at Burnaby Lake Park — Big Fun Run Series at Burnaby Lake Park

Big Fun Runs in 2023

Below is the event schedule for the Big Fun Run Series in 2023.

Big Jungle Run in Burnaby

The first event of the year for the series is the Big Jungle Run at Burnaby Lake Park. In 2023 it takes place on Saturday, March 25th. There are 1K, 5K and 10K routes. The same as with the other runs, participants are encouraged to raise money for a particular non-profit organization. In this case, the charitable beneficiary is Backpack Buddies which is an organization that provides weekly backpacks full of food to local children in need.

To learn more about this event, see our article about the Big Jungle Run or visit the Big Fun Run Series website.

Big Easter Run at Jericho Beach

The Big Easter Run happens at Jericho Beach Park in March or April each year. In 2023 it takes place on Saturday, April 8th, so on the Easter Long Weekend. Participants can run 1-3K, 5K or 10K routes near the waterfront. The event’s charity partner is KidSport BC which helps less fortunate families enroll their children in sports.

At this event there is also the Chimes Group Egg Hunt which is an Easter egg hunt for children who participate in the 1K and 3K runs.

For more information about this event check out our Big Easter Run article or click bigfunrunseries.com/big-easter-run.

Big Easter Run Kids' Warm-Up Fun — Big Easter Run Kids’ Run Warm-Up

Big Superhero Run at the Olympic Oval

The Big Superhero Run is held outside the Richmond Olympic Oval. Runners can choose between 1K, 5K or 10K routes along the Middle Arm Trail. In 2023 the event takes place on Wednesday, August 16th. This year’s charity partner is the Richmond Hospital Foundation, so donations help build a healthier future for the city.

To learn more about this event see our Big Superhero Run article or visit the Big Fun Run Series website.

Big Pirate Run in Steveston Village

Another annual Big Fun Run Series event is the Big Pirate Run in Richmond’s Steveston Village area. In 2023 the pirate-themed event takes place on Sunday, September 24th. There are several different distances to choose from. Folks can run 1-3K, 5K, 10K or 15K routes. For more experienced runners, there’s also a 21.1K half marathon run. This event happens at Garry Point Park. The run helps supports the Richmond Food Bank Society, which is a great cause that provides healthy food to over 2000 people each week.

For more information about the event see our article about the Big Pirate Run or visit the official Big Fun Run Series website.

Big Elf Run at Stanley Park

The Big Elf Run is the final event in the Big Fun Run Series each year. It takes place at Stanley Park in Vancouver around the holiday season. In 2023, the 9th annual event happens on Saturday, December 9th. There are 5K, 10K and 15K distances to choose from. There’s also a special route for kids that’s just 1K long. This year’s charity spotlight is the Lower Mainland Christmas Bureau which gives toys, clothes and more to over 1000 families each year.

To learn more about the event see our Big Elf Run article or visit the Big Fun Run Series website.

Big Elf Run Crowd in Stanley Park — Big Elf Run at Stanley Park

Other Big Fun Run Series Events

In 2023 there will be one other new event. It’s tentatively scheduled for some time in June at a yet-to-be-determined location in Burnaby. It’s expected to have 1K, 5K and 10K routes.