Nothing livens up San Diego like the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon. Thousands of out-of-state visitors, rock music, Elvis impersonators and a course that encompasses most of South San Diego creates a perfect atmosphere for one of California’s largest and most popular marathons. The 20,000 runners and estimated 100,000 spectators can attest to that fact. Every year since 1998, San Diegans and visitors alike lace up their running shoes for the San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon. Registration fees for this annual event benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. This year’s race takes place bright and early at 6:15 a.m. on Sunday, June 2. The 26.2-mile event begins at Balboa Park and encompasses most of San Diego, including nine miles of scenic oceanfront views and a stretch inside SeaWorld, and ends at Petco Park. A half marathon, a 5K race and a 7K race will also occur while the marathon is going on.

Watching the race isn’t the only form of entertainment — there will be live music from local San Diego musicians, and high school cheer squads will perfom along the course to keep morale and excitement up. After the race, there will be a concert with headliner The Psychedelic Furs — an English post-punk and new wave band. But don’t forget the best thing about races — free food, drinks and other promotional items available for both runners and spectators. 

It’s not too late to register for the marathon or any of the smaller races. Go to the San Diego Rock ‘n’ Roll website, and fill out the registration form. Although the fee is high — $125 — the money goes toward cancer research. Due to the increased volume of traffic and pedestrians on the day of the race, the Guardian does not recommend taking the MTS bus or trolley system to get to the race — find a ride instead.