Get ready to jingle all the way through summer at the festive Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K, set for Sunday, July 12, 2026, in Dayton, OH! Kicking off from Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway, this unique event invites runners to celebrate the holiday spirit with a Hawaiian twist. Participants will embark on a "sleigh ride" along the beautiful Great Miami River Recreational Trail, with both distances offering a road course that includes some hills and a mix of sun and shade. Typical race day conditions in July see highs around 86F and lows around 66F, with a 19% chance of precipitation, making for a warm but often enjoyable summer run.

What makes this race truly shine is its unparalleled festive atmosphere and generous swag. Runners can expect "chillin' Hawaiian Summer Christmas swag," including unique sublimated Christmas in July-style shirts or tank tops. Half Marathon finishers will be especially delighted with a real blinking light-up ornament finisher's medal, where they can dial in their finish time, along with a Christmas running hat and sunglasses, while 5K participants receive sunglasses with an optional hat upgrade. Aid stations are well-supported, offering water approximately every mile, with some stops even providing full water bottles.

The celebration continues post-race with a lively Christmas party starting at 8:30 AM. Runners can indulge in "Elf's Treats," including frozen treats, packaged snacks, and root beer, plus a complimentary drink ticket for a beer (21+) at Hollywood Gaming. With custom bibs featuring surprising Christmas names and a reputation for being an "amazing race," the Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K promises a memorable and fun-filled experience for approximately 500-1,000 participants looking to infuse their summer running with holiday cheer.