Illustration of a santa visit scene (Run for a Claus)
Other Christmas Activities

Run for a Claus

Lace up your running shoes for the 13th Annual Run for a Claus, a festive 5K and 1-mile run/walk benefiting local charities. Participants receive a Santa hat, finisher's medal, and a commemorative giveaway. Enjoy holiday music and decorations, with options for both in-person and virtual participation.

What to Expect

Festive 5K and 1-mile run for charity.

Event Details

Duration

Morning event

Ages

All ages

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

The OC Marathon

Food & Drink

Holiday treats provided to runners.

Get Tickets

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families, runners, charity supporters

Vibe

Festive, community-oriented, charitable

Energy Level

Moderate

Budget

$$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Low

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $44.60 – Get tickets
  • Parking: FREE parking is available in Lot 2, with entry off Phantom.
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair athletes are welcome on the course. Strollers are allowed, but participants with strollers are asked to start at the back.
  • Pets: No pets allowed

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to secure free parking in Lot 2, especially if you plan to pick up your race packet on race morning.
  • Consider registering as a team to take advantage of potential team pricing and to run with friends or family.
  • If you have a child 18 months or older, register them for the 1-mile race to ensure they receive a finisher's medal.
  • For those running the 5K, remember that price increases occur after September 9, 2026, so register early to save.
  • If you can't make it in person, the virtual option allows you to participate from anywhere and have your race package shipped.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Run for a Cause initiative benefiting local charities
  • Commemorative 2026 giveaway for all runners
  • Team pricing available
  • Virtual participation option with shipped race package

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed on the course?

No, dogs are not allowed on the course.

Where and when is packet pickup?

Packet pickup is on Friday, December 18th from 3:00-6:30 PM at A Snail's Pace in Fountain Valley, or on race morning starting at 6:30 AM.

Can someone else pick up my packet for me?

Yes, they just need a copy or photo of your ID.

Are strollers allowed on the course?

Yes, strollers are allowed. Participants with strollers are asked to start in the back, and children 18 months or older should be registered.

How do I 'Run For a Cause'?

You can donate to one of the local charity partners or bring a toy for the toy drive on race morning.

Tags

family friendlycharity eventseasonal activitiesfree eventcommunity celebrationSanta visitsholiday traditionwinter activities

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team