Santa's Run Fest
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Santa's Run Fest
Organized by the Winter Haven Optimist Club, Santa's Run Fest is a community running event held in Winter Haven, Florida on December 19, 2026. The event features multiple distances for adults, students, and children, plus volunteer roles.
Distances offered:
- 15K out-and-back to Lake Alfred on the Chain of Lakes Trail
- 10K out-and-back on the Chain of Lakes Trail
- 5K out-and-back on the Chain of Lakes Trail
- 800 yards kids' sprints for ages 10 and under
The courses run on the Chain of Lakes Trail and include gentle rises. The 15K route extends to Lake Alfred. Kids' sprints are broken down by age groups so children race with peers.
Runners receive a custom shirt while supplies last, a custom bib, and a finisher medal. Participants may form teams to compete for two trophies in each team category: Largest Team by number of competing runners, and Fastest Team based on the top three finishing times in the 5K. Team categories are Family, Corporate, and Social/Church/School.
Early packet pickup is scheduled for the day before the race in the breezeway of the Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce Building at 401 Avenue B NW. The race start location and day-of packet pickup are next to the Chamber of Commerce building at the same address. Volunteers can register at no fee. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
