San Diego Santa Run Brings 5K Fun to Pacific Beach

The 13th Annual San Diego Santa Run is happening in Pacific Beach, and if you’ve been looking for a 5K that’s less about PRs and more about running through the streets in a Santa suit with thousands of other people doing the same thing, this is it.

USA TODAY voted it Best Fun Run, and over 40,000 Santas have participated since it started. The event is filling the streets of Pacific Beach with what they’re calling a “Sea of Santas,” which is exactly what it sounds like.

What You’re Getting

5K runners receive a Sunny Santa Suit, Santa Run Sunglasses, chip timing, a custom bib, and a complimentary drink ticket. That’s everything you need to participate – the suit, the shades, and proof you actually finished.

Additional swag is available for purchase: Santa Run T-Shirt ($29), Santa Run Beanie ($19.99), and “I Ran With Him!” Socks ($14.99).

The 5K works for competitive runners and families alike. There are two start times – 8 AM and 10 AM – giving you flexibility based on whether you’re an early riser or prefer a later start.

Events for Everyone

Santa’s Elves Mile is a one-mile run designed for children 12 and under, happening at 11:30 AM. It’s short enough to keep kids engaged without overwhelming them, and it gets them involved in the event rather than just watching from the sidelines.

Santa’s Little Helper Mile is the dog run at noon, giving you a chance to bring your furry friend for a mile of fun. If you’ve got a dog who can handle a mile walk or jog in a crowd, this adds another layer to the experience.

The Pacific Beach Holiday Parade Follows

After all the runs wrap up, the annual Pacific Beach Holiday Parade starts at 1 PM. If you’re already in Pacific Beach dressed as Santa, you might as well stick around for the parade. It creates a full day of holiday activities rather than just a quick morning run.

The event has momentum after 13 years, and the fact that it keeps drawing thousands of participants suggests they’ve figured out how to make it fun rather than just gimmicky.

See you there!

Register, grab your Santa suit, and join thousands of other Santas running through Pacific Beach for one of San Diego’s most festive 5Ks.

📆 Saturday, December 13 | 5K Start Times: 8 AM & 10 AM | Kids Mile: 11:30 AM | Dog Mile: 12 PM | PB Holiday Parade: 1 PM
📍 912 Garnet Ave, San Diego
🎟️ Register here
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!

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