Best Christmas in July Marathons & Races in the U.S. 2026

Christmas in July has become one of summer's most joyful traditions, and for runners that means festive 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and family fun runs popping up across the country every July! Whether you're chasing a personal best or just want a merry morning (or evening) with the family, here's our state-by-state guide to the best Christmas in July runs for 2026.

Arkansas Christmas in July Races

Christmas 5K/10K/Half Marathon in July — Rogers, AR

Tucked into the Ozark foothills, this Christmas in July race in Rogers starts at the Blossom Way Trailhead and offers three distances for runners of every level looking to make their summer miles merry. The course draws a spirited crowd that leans into the holiday theme, with seasonal gear encouraged and a jolly race day atmosphere that makes it stand out from a typical summer morning race. Every finisher takes home a custom medal and race shirt, and age group awards are presented across all three distances, making it as competitive as it is fun.

• Dates: Sunday, July 19th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed
• Street Address: Blossom Way Trailhead, 3414 S Dixieland Rd, Rogers, AR 72758
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Not specified
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: After the race, head into downtown Rogers! It's just minutes from the trailhead and packed with local cafés to refuel. Register before July 11th to lock in current pricing.

California Christmas in July Races

Christmas in July 5K Run — Fresno, CA

Fresno's Christmas Tree Lane has been lined with towering cedar trees since 1920, and running beneath this canopy along Van Ness Avenue in July is about as close to a Christmas miracle as you'll find during a Central Valley summer. This flat, shaded CIJ 5K is a favorite for both runners chasing a PR and families logging their first race together. Best of all, it's a 10-point race in the California Classic Runner of the Year Series, and every registration supports summer programming at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Fresno County.

• Dates: Saturday, July 18th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; discounted entry for children ages 9 and under
• Street Address: Christmas Tree Lane, Van Ness & Palm Ave, Fresno, CA 93704
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: No
• Parking: Free (available on residential streets)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Strollers are welcome, but the event has a strict no-pet policy due to heavy crowd density along Christmas Tree Lane.

Connecticut Christmas in July Races

Surfin' Santa's Christmas in July 5K & Holiday Stroll — Stratford, CT

Set along the scenic seaside neighborhood of Lordship, this jolly Christmas in July event in Stratford brings a coastal New England atmosphere with cool breezes rolling off Long Island Sound. The course runs through quiet waterfront roads with great water views, creating a calm and scenic setting for this summer holiday fun run. Families and walkers often extend their visit after the race, staying for the post-race holiday market and reception near the Little Pub on Washington Parkway.

• Dates: Sunday, July 26th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration available online
• Street Address: 10 Washington Pkwy, Stratford, CT 06615
• Kid Friendly: Yes (free Kids Fun Run for ages 9 and under)
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free (available until full; arrive early)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: This event has a strict 250 person limit and sold out a week early last year. Register before June 30th to lock in the best price and guarantee your shirt size.

Florida Christmas in July Races

Sea Monkey Christmas in July 5K — Bradenton, FL

This Christmas in July race in Bradenton unfolds along the scenic paths of G.T. Bray Park, where humidity rises early and shaded, palm lined views define the course. The flat terrain within the park makes this CIJ 5K accessible for all levels, especially under typical Florida summer conditions. Many runners treat it as a relaxed morning outing and linger in the park's green spaces long after crossing the finish line.

• Dates: Saturday, July 11th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration available online
• Street Address: 2802 51st St W, Bradenton, FL 34209
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Yes (on leash)
• Parking: Free (on-site)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Hydrate well before arriving and use the water stations on course. Florida heat builds faster than expected, even in the early hours.

Georgia Christmas in July Races

Christmas 5K/10K/Half Marathon in July — Atlanta, GA

Celebrate the season with a spirited run along the Atlanta BeltLine, starting and finishing at New Realm Brewing. This Christmas in July race pairs urban skyline views with a high energy atmosphere, offering everything from a half marathon to a special sunset 5K "Christmas Eve" run. After crossing the finish line, participants can enjoy a merry deck party and a complimentary drink, making it one of the most festive summer holiday fun runs in Atlanta.

• Dates: Saturday, July 18th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; multiple distance options available ($45–$65)
• Street Address: 550 Somerset Terrace NE #101, Atlanta, GA 30306
• Kid Friendly: Yes (includes age groups 10 & under)
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Paid (nearby parking decks and street parking available)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Register by July 8th to guarantee your race shirt size and custom finisher medal. Registration also includes a free drink, so plan to stay for the deck party.

Idaho Christmas in July Races

Christmas in July 5K/10K/Half Marathon — Boise, ID

Set at Ann Morrison Park along the Boise River, this Christmas in July race offers three distances, a 5K, 10K, and half marathon, on a flat, paved river trail that's well suited for both goal  oriented runners and those just looking for a fun summer outing. Every finisher receives a custom medal and themed race shirt, and age group awards are presented across all three distances. The event also benefits Irreverent Warriors, a veteran-led Boise organization that brings veterans together through community and camaraderie to support mental health.

• Dates: Saturday, July 11th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration required (5K, 10K, and half marathon)
• Street Address: Ann Morrison Park, 1130 W Royal Blvd, Boise, ID 83706
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Not specified
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Register by July 1st to guarantee your shirt size. After that, race swag is available while supplies last. Enter via Royal Blvd off 9th Street on race morning.

Illinois Christmas in July Races

Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K — Elk Grove Village, IL

This race is held within the Busse Woods Forest Preserve, a massive natural area known for its paved woodland trails and resident elk population. The course is largely shaded, providing a cooler environment for both the half marathon and 5K distances during the Illinois summer. Finishers receive a signature blinking light medal and can stay for a post-race celebration right at the picnic grove. It is a well-established Christmas in July run that highlights the natural scenery of the Chicago suburbs.

• Dates: Saturday, July 18th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; half marathon and 5K registration available online
• Street Address: Busse Forest – Busse Lake Boating Center Picnic Grove #25, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007
• Kid Friendly: Yes (5K suitable for families)
• Pet Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Free (on-site)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Use the early packet pickup on Friday afternoon to avoid the morning lines and head straight to the starting line on race day.

Indiana Christmas in July Races

Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K — Indianapolis, IN

Now in its 10th year, this Indianapolis Christmas in July race has earned its place as one of the Midwest's most beloved summer running traditions. The route follows the Monon Trail, a flat, paved rail trail that cuts through vibrant neighborhoods and parklands. To celebrate the milestone, this year’s participants will receive special commemorative gear along with the traditional blinking light finisher medals. And once the race is done, make sure to stick around for one of the best July Christmas celebrations at Big Lug Canteen!

• Dates: Saturday, July 25th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; half marathon and 5K registration available online
• Street Address: 1435 E 86th St, Indianapolis, IN 46240 (packet pickup at Big Lug Canteen)
• Kid Friendly: Yes (5K suitable for families)
• Pet Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Free
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: This race frequently sells out in early summer; register as soon as possible to secure the 10th anniversary shirt and lower entry fees.

Kentucky Christmas in July Races

USARD Christmas in July 5K — Fort Knox, KY

Held within Fort Knox, the USARD Christmas in July run offers a structured environment shaped by its military installation setting. The out-and-back course is open to all ages and includes a virtual participation option, making it an accessible summer holiday fun run in the region. All proceeds benefit the USARD Ball, and the first 200 registrants earn a finisher medal, so signing up early counts for more than just the price break.

• Dates: Saturday, July 18th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration available online
• Street Address: 1307 Third Ave., Fort Knox, KY 40121
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Not specified
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Register at least three weeks before race day to receive a personalized bib in the mail, and to be among the first 200 participants to secure a finisher medal.

Louisiana Christmas in July Races

Christmas in July — Baton Rouge, LA

This Christmas in July race in Baton Rouge is a heartwarming community fundraiser that brings Santa’s Workshop to Louisiana. Participants can choose between 1-mile, 2-mile, or a longer 5.6-mile route, all while raising money for the Surfgimp Foundation and St. Jude. This summer holiday fun run stands out for its holiday perks: every in-person finisher gets to claim a gift-wrapped Christmas present, making it one of the most rewarding small-scale races in the region!

• Dates: Saturday, July 25th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed (benefiting charity)
• Street Address: 1242 Louray Drive, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free (neighborhood and street parking nearby)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: These themed community races keep registration simple and capacity limited, so signing up early helps ensure access to preferred distances and event perks.

Christmas 5K/10K/Half Marathon in July — Shreveport/Bossier City, LA

Set along the A.R. Teague trail at Walker Place Park in Bossier City, this Christmas in July race follows the Red River on a flat, open course that suits everyone from first timers to half marathon regulars. The warm Louisiana morning air and wide riverside paths give this summer holiday fun run a laid back Southern energy, with all three distances sharing the same early start time. Finishers receive a custom medal and themed race shirt, and age group awards are handed out across the 5K, 10K, and half marathon.

• Dates: Sunday, July 12th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed
• Street Address: Walker Place Park, 4832 Brookshire Arena Dr, Bossier City, LA 71112
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Not specified
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Stick around after the finish and walk along the Red River. Prices go up after July 4th, so register early.

Missouri Christmas in July Races

Christmas in July 5K — Osage Beach, MO

Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Lake of the Ozarks, this Christmas in July 5K in Osage Beach offers a scenic, destination-style race experience with a warm community vibe. The early morning start is designed to beat the summer heat, making it a comfortable option even for peak-season running. Proceeds benefit a local summer camp program, and participants who register early can snag a hand-designed, locally printed race shirt, a detail that keeps this holiday 5K feeling genuinely homegrown.

• Dates: Saturday, July 25th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration required
• Street Address: 950 Airport Rd, Osage Beach, MO 65065
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free (on-site)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Register by June 30th to guarantee the locally hand printed race shirt. It's one of the more unique pieces of race swag you'll find at a summer holiday fun run.

New Jersey Christmas in July Races

Christmas in July 5K Run & 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk — Brigantine, NJ

This Christmas in July 5K Run & One Mile Fun Run/Walk in Brigantine brings a community-focused summer race experience to the Jersey Shore, welcoming runners, joggers, and walkers of all levels. The event blends a festive holiday theme with a coastal setting at Brigantine Community School, creating a seasonal race option in the area. It’s a simple and accessible way to take part in Christmas in July events in New Jersey.

• Dates: Saturday, July 25th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration required
• Street Address: Brigantine Community School, 301 E. Evans Blvd., Brigantine, NJ 08203
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free (available on-site at the school)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Register before June 25th at 8:00 AM to avoid the scheduled price increase. Since the race starts and finishes at the BCS track, it is an ideal spot for spectators to gather and cheer for the runners at both the beginning and end of the race.

Ohio Christmas in July Races

Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K — Dayton, OH

Dayton’s half marathon offers a high-energy atmosphere centered around the Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway, where the level course allows for great visibility and a festive crowd. Known for its community spirit, this event features holiday music pumping through the speakers and volunteers dressed as elves to keep morale high during the July heat. Participants are rewarded with a unique "blinking light" finisher medal and a celebratory atmosphere that makes it a standout choice for July Christmas celebrations in the Miami Valley.

• Dates: Sunday, July 12th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration available online
• Street Address: Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway, Wagner Ford Road, Dayton, OH 45414
• Kid Friendly: Yes (5K generally suitable for families)
• Pet Friendly: No
• Parking: Free (on-site at Hollywood Gaming)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: The half marathon may include a course time limit and standard support cutoffs typical of road races; review official race communications closer to race day if you anticipate a walk-heavy pace or plan to be near the back of the field.

Worthington Connects' Christmas in July 5K — Worthington, OH

This evening CIJ 5K in Worthington brings a whimsical holiday glow to the summer night, featuring a course that winds through Snouffer Road Park. It’s a community-driven celebration that supports Worthington Connects, a nonprofit providing year-round resources to local families. Participants can enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with food trucks, vendor tables, and plenty of holiday cheer under the evening sky, making it a standout summer holiday fun run for the whole family.

• Dates: Saturday, July 25th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration available online
• Street Address: Snouffer Road Park, 2341 Snouffer Rd, Worthington, OH 43085
• Kid Friendly: Yes (includes a Kids Fun Run at 7:30 PM)
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free (on-site)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Arrive by 6:30 PM to handle packet pickup and explore the local sponsor booths before the races begin. Be sure to stay after this CIJ 5K finish to see if you’ve won one of the prizes donated by local businesses.

Oklahoma Christmas in July Races

Christmas 5K/10K/Half Marathon in July — Oklahoma City, OK

With wide open skies, a level lakefront path, and enough room for all three distances to share the same morning without feeling crowded, this Christmas in July race at Lake Stanley Draper hits the mark! The course follows the lake's perimeter on a wide, flat path built for runners chasing a personal best, with the 5K and 10K as out-and-back routes and the half marathon as a double loop so you always know exactly what's ahead.

• Dates: Saturday, July 18th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; virtual race options also available
• Street Address: Lake Stanley Draper Playground, 8301 SE 104th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73165
• Kid Friendly: Yes (5K suitable for families)
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Shade is limited along the water, so plan to carry your own hydration if you are tackling the longer distances in the summer heat.

Pennsylvania Christmas in July Races

Create Academy's Christmas in July Fun 5K — Coal Township, PA

Create Academy's Christmas in July Fun 5K turns race day into a full community celebration at the Shamokin Area Elementary School, with food truck vendors, Christmas karaoke, water play for kids, and surprises around every turn of the course. Beyond the CIJ 5K itself, the event includes age group prizes and a best costume award for both male and female participants, adding a playful competitive layer to an already jolly atmosphere. It's a Christmas in July activity that feels like a block party with a starting line!

• Dates: Saturday, July 25th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration required
• Street Address: Shamokin Area Elementary School, 3000 West State Street, Coal Township, PA 17866
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free (on-site at the school parking lot)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Plan a costume! There's a dedicated best costume award for male and female participants.

South Carolina Christmas in July Races

Rudolph's Revenge: A Christmas in July Night Run — Rock Hill, SC

Unlike most Christmas in July races, Rudolph's Revenge kicks off at 8:30 PM on the Northwestern High School cross-country course, where glow sticks and holiday lights turn a summer evening in Rock Hill into something that feels a whole lot like the holidays. This Christmas in July night run covers primarily grass with a stretch of track, making it a unique and festive alternative to your typical road race. It's also a fundraiser for the Northwestern Cross Country team, and after you cross the finish line, there's a food truck, music, and awards for the top finishers.

• Dates: Saturday, July 18th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; race-day registration available until 8:00 PM
• Street Address: Northwestern High School XC Course, 2503 W Main St, Rock Hill, SC 29732
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Since this is a night race on grass, wear shoes with extra traction to stay stable on any patches of evening dew.

Santa Stroll Christmas in July 5K — Myrtle Beach, SC

Set along the Grand Strand, this Christmas in July 5K in Myrtle Beach carries a coastal rhythm shaped by salty air and ocean breezes. The route begins and ends at Tidal Creek Brewhouse, where the relaxed atmosphere of Market Common creates a vibrant backdrop for summer Christmas events in coastal South Carolina. It's a lighthearted summer holiday fun run where participants often stay after finishing to enjoy breakfast specials and open-air spaces around the brewery.

• Dates: Saturday, July 25th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration available online
• Street Address: 3421 Knoles St, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free (lot directly across from Tidal Creek Brewhouse)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Arrive at least 45 minutes early to claim a spot in the lot directly across from the brewery. This ensures you’re close to the starting line and the post-race breakfast festivities.

Tennessee Christmas in July Races

Run Santa Run Christmas in July — Chattanooga, TN

This July Santa run in Chattanooga is genuinely unlike any other race on this list: it's an evening event, with the half marathon starting at 8:00 PM and then a 5K and 10K kicking off at 8:30 PM along the Tennessee Riverpark. As the sun sets over the water, runners take to the course in Santa hats and holiday gear, surrounded by twinkling lights, Christmas music, and festive decorations that transform the riverfront into a midsummer winter wonderland. It's also a Run Rhino Run production, a well-established race organization, which means the atmosphere, logistics, and race-day experience are dialed in.

• Dates: Saturday, July 18th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration required (5K, 10K, and half marathon)
• Street Address: Hubert Fry Center, 4301 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Riverpark at the Dam, 4501 Amnicola Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37406
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Pick up your bib and shirt at the early packet pickup on Friday, July 17th at Fleet Feet Chattanooga (307 Manufacturers Road). Race day packet pickup doesn't open until 6:30 PM, so getting it done the day before will keep your race evening smooth!

Texas Christmas in July Races

The Salvation Army of Greater Houston's Annual Christmas in July 5K, 10K & Kids Reindeer Dash — Houston, TX

Winding through the scenic trails of TC Jester Park along the White Oak Bayou, this Salvation Army-hosted Christmas in July race welcomes both the littlest of reindeer to seasoned 10K runners. The Reindeer Kids Dash gets the whole family in on the fun, while the Red Kettle 5K and Angel Tree 10K give competitive runners plenty to chase. Every mile directly benefits the Salvation Army of Greater Houston's community programs, local shelters, youth services, and early funding for Christmas assistance, making this one of the most meaningful summer holiday fun runs in the city.

• Dates: Saturday, July 25th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; reduced pricing for children ages 12 and under
• Street Address: TC Jester Park, 4201 TC Jester Blvd, Houston, TX 77018
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Arrive at the park at least 45 minutes early, as parking fills up quickly due to the high volume of families attending the kids' dash.

Christmas in July 5K — San Juan, TX

Organized by RGV's Little Elves, a Rio Grande Valley nonprofit, this Christmas in July 5K runs along the Hidalgo County Precinct 2 Hike & Bike Trail and doubles as a meaningful community fundraiser. Every registration helps provide food, clothing, hygiene products, and other essential items to children identified by local school officials as most in need, making this a race where every mile genuinely counts. With a reduced entry option for younger runners and a chip-timed, finisher-medal experience for all participants, it's equal parts festive and family forward.

• Dates: Saturday, July 18th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; $25 adults (includes shirt and finisher medal); $15 ages 17 and under (finisher medal, no shirt)
• Street Address: 1901 S Cage Blvd, San Juan, TX 78577
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Not specified
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Register by June 26th to guarantee your race shirt, and consider attending the July 17th packet pickup at Deep Water CrossFit in McAllen to skip race morning lines.

Washington Christmas in July Races

Christmas in July 5K — Seattle, WA

Gas Works Park will be a little more jolly this July when Seattle hosts its first ever Christmas in July 5K, bringing holiday spirit and summer fun to one of the city's most iconic waterfront settings. This summer holiday fun run welcomes every pace and every person, with professional race photos, finish line goodies, and a photo op with Santa to make it memorable. Every finisher takes home a custom wooden medal made from reclaimed wood, a fitting touch for a Pacific Northwest crowd that appreciates something a little different.

• Dates: Sunday, July 19th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; advanced purchase required
• Street Address: Gas Works Park, 2101 N Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Yes
• Parking: Free street parking available
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Register by June 29th to guarantee your shirt size and score a free can cooler,  after that, shirts and swag are while supplies last.

Christmas 5K/10K/Half Marathon in July — Washougal, WA

Located along the Columbia River, this Christmas in July race near Portland captures the cool, green atmosphere of the Pacific Northwest on a beautiful summer morning. The course at Captain William Clark Park follows level riverfront paths that suit both performance-focused runners and those looking for a scenic, easy-going outing by the water. Many participants stay after the finish to enjoy a quiet cool down in the shaded park, making it an ideal holiday escape before the afternoon patriotic Independence Day festivities begin.

• Dates: Saturday, July 4th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration required
• Street Address: Captain William Clark Park, 3333 Index St, Washougal, WA 98671
• Kid Friendly: Yes
• Pet Friendly: Not specified
• Parking: Free (on-site)
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: Pack a light layer for the pre-race warmup, as morning river breezes can feel quite cool. Starting your run at 8:00 AM leaves you with the rest of the day free to enjoy your 4th of July parties and evening celebrations.

Washington, D.C. Christmas in July Races

Christmas in July 5K & Half — Georgetown, Washington, D.C.

Running along the C&O Canal Towpath, Georgetown's Christmas in July 5K and Half Marathon offers a flat, gravel-surface route right alongside the Potomac River. A key logistical detail: the two distances start at different points, with the Christmas in July half marathon beginning near the Potomac Boat Club and the 5K starting at Fletcher's Boat House. This staggered setup keeps the trail uncrowded and gives runners of both distances a more peaceful running experience amid Georgetown's iconic historic architecture.

• Dates: Saturday, July 25th, 2026
• Admission: Ticketed; registration available online
• Street Address: Multiple start locations (Georgetown Waterfront & Fletcher's Boat House)
• Kid Friendly: Yes (5K suitable for families)
• Pet Friendly: Not specified (typically not encouraged for safety)
• Parking: 5K — free parking nearby (limited); Half — paid parking typical in Georgetown
• Website: Register online

Insider Tip: The half marathon and 5K start at different locations; confirm your specific start point before race day so you know exactly where to head on the morning of the event.

Frequently Asked Questions

When are Christmas in July races held?

Most take place on weekends throughout July, often mid-to-late month, with a few scheduled around the Fourth of July. Check each race listing for exact dates.

What should I wear to a Christmas in July run?

Dress for summer heat and humidity with light, breathable clothing, then add festive touches like a Santa hat, antlers, or holiday colors. Many races hand out themed shirts and finisher medals. Also consider wearing clothing made with sun-safe fabric rated at UPF 50+ to better block the sun's harmful rays.

Are Christmas in July races family friendly?

Yes! Most events offer a CIJ 5K or shorter summer holiday fun run suitable for all ages, and several include dedicated kids' dashes. Check individual listings for stroller and pet policies.

Are there virtual race options?

Several Christmas in July races offer a virtual division you can complete anywhere on your own schedule. Look for a "virtual" option on the race's registration page.

How early should I register?

Many of these races sell out or raise prices as race day approaches, and shirt sizes are often guaranteed only for early registrants. Signing up a few weeks ahead is your safest bet and with races as early as Independence Day weekend, we recommend signing up as soon as possible!

My can I add my event to this guide?

We'd love to feature your Christmas in July event! Simply share your event through our quick submission form and we will get it added to the list!

Find Your Festive Christmas in July Run

From shaded forest trails and riverfront paths to glow-lit evening runs, Christmas in July races prove that holiday spirit doesn't have to wait for winter. Lace up, grab your Santa hat, and find a festive run near you! And make sure to register early, since many of these events fill up fast. 

Looking for more ways to celebrate the Christmas season this summer? Check out our Christmas in July event listings as well as the best year-round Christmas stores to shop during these dog days!