Since 1989, local kids have been screaming — and running — for ice scream during Nite Moves Kids Run, 6:30 p.m. Wednesday nights from May to August at Leadbetter Beach in Santa Barbara.

“I have been the volunteer director of the Kids Ice Cream Run,” said Irene Russo. “We serve McConnell’s ice cream to the kids first and then to the rest of the participants.

Night Moves Kids was the first swim and run in Santa Barbara, said Russo said. There is a 1K swim, 5K run, Biathlon and kids run. Kids and their parents run around the lifeguard stand — about a quarter mile.

“I’ve worked on it since that first Wednesday in 1989,” Russo said. “Nite Moves is still going strong. Not an easy task in the world of competitive racing.”

“The Nite Moves is a fun family event dedicated to the athletic training and promotion of children and their families.” she said.

The fee to participate is $30. Participants can sign up online or show up at Nite Moves, Visit NiteMoves 2026.

“Kids as young as two practice running for this sweet gooey treat. I serve it and watch their bright little faces light up with ice cream mania. They just beam with joy,” Irene Russo said.

Russo said her son Russell Russo was raised in the Nite Moves and Kids Run program. He is now the head coach of Carpinteria High water polo program, she said.

The Katsev family of phthalmologists has taken over the ice cream run this year. Russo said.