City Celebrates the Sixth Annual Gresham Lilac Run

On April 27 at 8:00 am, the City of Gresham is excited to host the sixth annual Gresham Lilac Run taking place at Main City Park, 219 South Main Ave. in Gresham. The Lilac Run, presented by Unitus Community Credit Union, consists of a five-kilometer, ten-kilometer, and half marathon course, taking participants through the Springwater Corridor, the Saddle Butte, and the Butler Creek Trail. The race also includes the Little Lilac Run for younger athletes.

"The Lilac Run, which sells out every year, has quickly become one of Gresham's most beloved events," said Gresham Interim City Manager Eric Schmidt. "From the cleanup events that led up to the race to the festivities on the day of, it's a wonderful way to come together as a community and celebrate the beauty of Gresham."

Because of the event sponsorships, one hundred percent of the race proceeds will go directly to a local non-profit and the 2024 Lilac Run Beneficiary is Shooting Star Adventures. Their mission is to empower the community through outdoor recreational opportunities that cultivate teamwork, instill self-confidence and promote a strong connection to nature. Proceeds from the race will directly support their co-ed day camps in Gresham.

It is important to remember that the Lilac Run is entirely sponsorship funded and without the generous support of many event sponsors, this event would not be possible. A special thank you to:

• Presenting sponsor: Unitus Community Credit Union.
• Gold sponsor: Owens Corning Gresham.
• Bronze sponsors: Migration Brewing, Marathon Printing, Inc., Cascade Physical Therapy, State Farm Insurance, and Country Coffee Hitched Up.
• Aid station sponsors: Eastwind Running and Endurance Club, Metro East Web Academy.
• Partner sponsors: Rock Haven Climbing Gym, Country Coffee Gresham, and Natural Grocers.

Registration for the 2025 Gresham Lilac Run will begin in the fall. Please visit GreshamOregon.gov/Lilac-Run for registration updates, beneficiary applications and sponsorship opportunities.