2026 Santa Monica-Venice Christmas Run

The Santa Monica-Venice Christmas Run is celebrating its 49th year, making it one of Southern California's longest-running holiday races. Thousands of runners, walkers and families gather near Ocean View Park for a festive morning of 10K, 5K and Youth Run races along the Santa Monica and Venice coastline.

Costumes are part of the tradition, so expect to see plenty of Santas, elves, reindeer and even a Grinch or two weaving through the course on closed city streets. Registered runners receive holiday swag, a finisher's medal and free finish-line photos, and the races are professionally timed for anyone chasing a personal best.

Kids can join the fun with the Youth Run, which makes this a great family tradition whether everyone races or some just cheer from the sidelines. A post-race holiday party with treats and music keeps the celebration going after the finish line, and spectators are welcome to join in.

Parents should note that strollers, scooters, bikes and other wheeled devices are not permitted on the course, and there is no race-day registration, so sign up in advance.

📅 Dates & Times

Saturday, December 12, 2026

7:00 AM – 12:00 PM

📍 Venue

Ocean View Park

2701 Barnard Way

Santa Monica, CA 90405

👨🏻‍👩🏻‍👦🏻‍👦🏻 Age Requirement

All ages are welcome.

A Youth Run is offered for kids; check the official site for Youth Run age guidelines.

🎟️ Tickets/Price

Registration is required to run.

Current registration fees: 5K $49, 10K $59, Youth Run $24. Virtual 5K and 10K options are also available.

Prices increase on October 25 and November 29, 2026.

Online registration closes at noon the day before the race, and there is no race-day registration.

Spectators are welcome at the post-race party.

REGISTER FOR THE CHRISTMAS RUN

🍔 Food

Registered runners can enjoy treats and beverages at the post-race holiday party.

🚙 Parking

Please check the website for more information.

🌐 Website Link

Santa Monica-Venice Christmas Run

🧭 Directions

Click on the “Google” map for directions.

📢 Disclaimer

Event listings are believed to be accurate at the time of posting, but details are subject to change without notice. Please confirm all details with the event organizer before attending. FUN WITH KIDS IN LA® is not liable for errors, omissions, or changes to listings in our calendar. Some events have paid us to be on our events calendar, and some events contain an affiliate link.