San Diego Santa Run
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San Diego Santa Run
The San Diego Santa Run takes place in Pacific Beach on December 12, 2026, with the start and finish located at 912 Garnet Avenue. The event has attracted thousands of participants over its history; organizers report that more than 45,000 Santas have taken part to date.
The event program includes multiple distances:
- 5K
- Kids 1 Mile
- Dog 1 Mile
All 5K participants receive a Sunny Santa Suit, Santa Run sunglasses, chip timing and a custom bib, plus a complimentary drink ticket. Kids 1 Mile participants receive a bib, Santa Run T-shirt, Santa hat, sunglasses, chip timing and a finisher medal. The Dog 1 Mile provides a bib, T-shirt, hat and sunglasses; dogs are not allowed in the 5K and the dog wave is limited to 125 spots.
Packet pick-up is available at scheduled locations, and a mail option is offered for a $17.50 fee with a specified purchase deadline. There is a convenience fee for race morning packet pick-up.
Chip timing is provided for both 5K waves and the kids mile; the dog/owner mile is not chip timed. Age group awards are offered for one 5K wave only. The event benefits the Pacific Beach Holiday Parade. Complimentary drink tickets are redeemable at participating local bars and require age verification for alcohol. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
