Santa Paws 5K - Palm Springs
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Event overview
Santa Runs Palm Springs takes place on December 20, 2025 in Palm Springs, CA. The event was formerly called the Santa Paws 5K. Participants may run, walk, or stroll the course. The event allows strollers and leashed dogs.
Distances
- 5K
- 200 m Elf Dash (children 10 and under; ages 1-14 listed for the children’s event)
Course and facilities
The course begins at the Temple Isaiah parking lot at 332 West Alejo Rd. and follows a quiet, scenic route through the Las Palmas neighborhood. Organizers describe the route as mostly flat with one small hill and a downhill to the finish. Porta potties will be available at the finish. There is no bag check.
Entry, packet pickup, and items
The 5K has tiered entry fees: $35 until October 15; $40 from October 16 to November 15; $45 from November 16 to December 1; $49 from December 2 to December 18; and $54 from December 19 through race day. The children’s Elf Dash entry is listed at $15 through race day. Packet pickup is at Ruth Hardy Park parking lot, 700 Tamarisk Road, on Friday, December 19 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Race-morning packet pickup and late registration are available at the race site beginning at 7:15 AM.
Registered participants receive a Santa suit to keep, a finisher medal, chip timing, and a free online finisher certificate download. Milk and cookies are provided to registered participants. A portion of proceeds and donations support the Palm Springs Animal Shelter.
Awards
All finishers receive a medal at the finish line. Division medals are awarded to the first three men and women in five-year age divisions through 85+. Awards are also given to top overall finishers, top teams, and top strollers and dogs. A 1 hour 45 minute cutoff is in place for the 5K. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
