Hot Chocolate Run – Columbus
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Columbus SKECHERS Hot Chocolate Run
The SKECHERS Hot Chocolate Run in Columbus takes place on November 15, 2026 at McFerson Commons in downtown Columbus. The event offers road race options in three distances:
- 5K
- 10K
- 15K
Registered participants receive a full-zip event jacket, a commemorative finisher's medal, a race bib, and access to post-race hot chocolate and a chocolate fondue finisher's mug. Races are professionally managed and timed, free high-resolution photos are provided, and live runner tracking is available for participants and spectators.
The course runs through the Riverfront and Arena districts along the Scioto River and passes landmarks such as the Rich Street Bridge, Bicentennial Park, Nationwide Arena, and the Union Station Arch. The route also goes by neighborhoods including the River South District, Brewery District, German Village, Uptown District, Victorian Village, and Short North. The post-race party at McFerson Commons includes music, vendors, and on-site food and drink offerings.
A Hot Chocolate Expo and packet pickup are held at the Greater Columbus Convention Center the day before the race. Expo hours are listed as 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. There is no race day packet pickup; packet mailing is offered for a fee and has a registration deadline noted in event materials.
A Ghirardelli Cocoa Club upgrade provides premium Ghirardelli hot cocoa, a shopping bag with take-home cocoa, a store credit, preferred corral placement, and access to a dedicated club area with added amenities. Overall and age group awards are presented for the 5K, 10K, and 15K with prize packages and next-year registration incentives for top finishers. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
