Christmas 5K/10K/Half Marathon in July - Chattanooga

Lace up your running shoes and jingle all the way to the finish line at the Christmas 5K/10K/Half Marathon in July – Chattanooga, taking place on Sunday, July 26, 2026! This festive event brings the holiday spirit to summer, inviting runners and walkers of all levels to celebrate with a unique Christmas in July theme. Starting and finishing at Shelter #1 along the scenic Tennessee RiverWalk in Chattanooga, participants can choose from a 5K, 10K, or Half Marathon distance, all on a fast and flat paved course, making it ideal for setting a personal best or enjoying a leisurely holiday-themed run. The Half Marathon features a double-loop course around Leslie Groves Park and the RiverWalk, offering picturesque urban, park, and riverfront views without significant elevation gain.

What truly sets this race apart is its joyful atmosphere. Runners are encouraged to don Santa gear or other holiday-themed attire, enhancing the festive ambiance. Expect holiday music, Christmas lights along the route, and even candy fuel stations at approximately every 1.5 to 2 miles to keep your spirits and energy high. Aid stations will be well-stocked with water, Gatorade, gels, and bananas to support you through every mile. Finishers are celebrated with a custom, Santa-approved race shirt and medal, while overall and age-group awards are presented across all distances.

Embrace the summer cheer masquerading as a winter wonderland in Chattanooga, where typical race day conditions in late July see highs around 91°F and lows around 72°F, with a modest 16% chance of precipitation. This family-friendly event, part of the Run Santa Run series, is a community-oriented celebration, perfect for those seeking a fun, lighthearted race experience rather than an intensely competitive one.