Wildflower Experience returns to Central Coast this May
Clinics, live music, and wellness activities highlight the weekend
– The Wildflower Experience will return to the Central Coast from May 2–4, 2025, bringing a revitalized lineup of races, clinics, and community events for its 36th year. Known as the “Woodstock of Triathlon,” the event is more than just a race – it offers a full weekend of endurance challenges, adventure, and connection.
The event will feature its signature Long Course, Olympic, and Sprint triathlons, along with a new Gravel Sprint designed for athletes who prefer off-road racing. Other endurance events include a 20K Trail Run, 5K and 10K Fun Runs, an Open Water Swim, and the WF2 Challenge, which challenges athletes across both the Long Course and Olympic distances.
“This is where racing meets community,” said Colleen Bousman, Event Director and owner of See & Be Productions. “We’re creating an environment where athletes not only compete but also connect with each other, with the land, and with the legacy of Wildflower. The clinics, games, and expanded festival are all about making this a weekend you’ll never forget.”
What’s new in 2025
This year, the event will introduce the TriDot Games, a new competition designed for athletes and spectators. The TriDot Games feature interactive challenges that encourage camaraderie and highlight the fun side of the sport.
Wildflower’s festival schedule also includes a variety of hands-on opportunities for athletes to learn, recover, and connect. Clinics will cover topics such as Open Water Swim Tips with top coaches, Trail Running Techniques, Gravel Bike Skills, Nutrition for Endurance Athletes, and Mental Training for Race Day. Pre-race shakeout runs, rides, and yoga sessions will help participants prepare for the course.
Festival atmosphere, live entertainment
Festivalgoers can enjoy live music all weekend, featuring Vince Cimo’s Hot Fire, The Vibe Setters, Ben Hein, and the Shawn Clark Family Band. Food trucks, craft beverage tastings from Firestone Walker Brewing Company and 15C Wine Bar, and wellness experiences such as a spa lounge, paddleboard and kayak rentals, and outdoor fitness classes will also be available. The three-day endurance expo will showcase the latest in multisport gear, nutrition, and technology. Families can enjoy the Wildflower Kids Race for children ages 3–12.
Triathlon clubs, teams
With over 60 triathlon clubs and collegiate teams confirmed, Wildflower will provide an energetic and community-driven atmosphere. Group campsites, team relays, and social events will enhance the sense of tradition at the event.
Camping options
Participants can choose from a variety of accommodations, including traditional campsites, RV sites, and premium glamping options. Canvas Bell Tents with queen beds and linens will provide an immersive experience, bringing athletes closer to nature and the event’s lakeside energy.
Schedule of events
All events will take place at Lake San Antonio, South Shore, Monterey County, CA.
Friday, May 2, 2025
Festival Kick-Off, Lifestyle Expo, Music, Yoga, Food Trucks & Expo
Race Clinics and Athletes’ Presentations
Wildflower Kids Race (ages 3–12)
Saturday, May 3, 2025
Long Course Triathlon (1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike, 13.1-mile run)
Off-Road Gravel Sprint Triathlon (.25-mile swim, 9.7-mile bike, 2-mile run)
20K Trail Run
Open Water Swim
Wildflower 5K & 10K Run
Sunday, May 4, 2025
Olympic Distance Triathlon (1.5k swim, 40k bike, 10k run)
Collegiate Olympic Distance Race (1.5k swim, 40k bike, 10k run)
Sprint Distance Triathlon (.25-mile swim, 20k bike, 5k run)
For a detailed schedule of events, visit https://www.wildflowerexperience.com/festival/schedule/
