Running Through Rainbows: Irvine’s Dream Run Returns

Irvine’s annual Dream Run will take place Saturday, April 26th. Photo courtesy of John Shen

Hearts were pumping—not just from excitement, but from the adrenaline of racing through Irvine’s neighborhoods for the Dream Run. This vibrant event debuted in April 2023 as part of the Irvine Tech Week festivities and quickly became a standout highlight. Organizer John Shen shared his thoughts on the event’s debut and what lies ahead for the Dream Run in Irvine.

“The run was successful last year,” said Shen. “We had a large showing of people from all ages and backgrounds. We aim to bring that success into our future planning and shape future Dream Runs.” 

rvine Tech Week is an annual celebration of innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. It brings together tech enthusiasts, startup founders, industry leaders, and investors for a week of workshops, panel discussions, networking, and product showcases. The week-long event aims to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and highlight the technological advancements and opportunities within the Irvine tech ecosystem.

The inaugural Dream Run was held in the Woodbridge community, offering scenic and accessible running paths.

“The Dream Run is looking for new venues such as the UCI Campus or Great Park,” Shen noted.

Dream Run participant May Hu reflected positively on the route: “I thought Woodbridge was a great route for people to run along because of its accessibility to the public and its wide paths. I saw some people with strollers and some even running with their dogs.” 

The Dream Run welcomes participants of all ages, from kindergarteners to octogenarians, and emphasizes community over competition. Although it may appear to be just a fun race, the Dream Run offers something deeper: a chance to bring together people from different cultures, languages, and lifestyles in a shared, joyful experience.

“I saw the Dream Run as a great way to meet, interact, and connect first-generation community members,” Shen explained. “Within the past years, I noticed that there’s a perception of a loss of association among these people.” 

The event was filled with laughter, chatter, and community spirit—an ideal atmosphere for making new connections.

Launching a New Irvine Tradition

As one might expect for a first-time community-wide event, Shen and his team navigated several challenges.

“The most challenging part was probably fighting time and advertising,” Shen said. 

With just two months to plan, organizing a large-scale public event was no small feat. Still, the team pulled off a successful day thanks to their dedication and adaptability. “Everyone was ready to help and handle anything that came up,” Shen added.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a Dream Run without some dreamy color. At the 100-foot mark, volunteers lined the course, tossing food-safe powdered dye into the air as runners passed. As participants made their way through the vibrant clouds, the colors layered onto their clothing and skin. Some brought goggles, while others simply closed their eyes and embraced running through the vibrant haze.

Looking ahead, Shen hopes to boost visibility for the next Dream Run by tapping into social media and local networks.

“We think utilizing social media and reaching out to different groups such as track and field clubs would expand our visibility in such an expanding city,” Shen said.

With over 40% of Irvine’s population being immigrants, Shen believes events like the Dream Run can help foster a stronger sense of belonging for everyone.

“The Dream Run is an event, a place, and a great opportunity to bring together people,” said Shen, “and creates unique value for the long term growth of the city.”

The Dream Run is this coming Saturday, April 26th at the Great Park. Learn more here.