Runnin' of the Green

The Runnin' of the Green brings St. Patrick's Day festivities to Washington Park each March, featuring a community 5K run/walk through Denver's beloved 165-acre urban oasis. This annual event combines fitness with Irish celebration — participants often don green attire and shamrock accessories while traversing the park's tree-lined paths and scenic lake views.

Washington Park serves as the perfect backdrop for this St. Patrick's Day tradition, offering 2.6 miles of paved trails that wind past Smith Lake and Grasmere Lake. The event typically draws hundreds of runners and walkers of all fitness levels; families with strollers and serious athletes alike participate in this community celebration that kicks off Denver's St. Patrick's Day weekend activities.

Post-race festivities often include Irish music, food vendors, and green beer — creating a festival atmosphere that extends beyond the athletic component. The event supports local charities while celebrating Denver's active outdoor culture and the city's strong Irish-American heritage.