Run for a Claus
Participants take part in a festive 5K race or a Kids 1-Mile run and walk benefiting local charities and the Kids Run the OC Foundation. The family-friendly event features holiday music, decorations, costumes, cookies, and an appearance by Santa for photos. Registered runners receive a finisher medal, a Santa hat and beard, a commemorative giveaway, and complimentary race photos.
What to Expect
Holiday 5K and kids run featuring costumes, medals, and treats.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
The OC Marathon
Food & Drink
Cookies and holiday treats are mentioned for registered runners.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children and recreational runners
Vibe
Festive and active
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$$
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: 5K and 1 Mile: $50.05 including a $5.05 fee; listed age prices are $11.90 for ages 0–5 and $22.80 for ages 6–12. Virtual: $50.05. The 5K price increases after October 16, 2026 at 11:59pm PDT. – Get tickets
- Hours: 5K: 8:30AM PST; 1 Mile: 8:00AM PST; Virtual: 8:00AM - 8:30AM PST.
- Parking: Free for registered runners; park in Lot 2 and enter off Phantom.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair athletes are welcome on the course, and strollers are permitted starting at the back.
- Pets: Dogs are not allowed on the course.
Tips & Advice
- Register everyone who'll be on the course, including parents, young children and stroller riders 18 months or older, because every runner must be registered.
- Pick up your packet early at A Snail's Pace in Fountain Valley on Friday, or collect it at the Great Park on race morning.
- Register ahead instead of counting on race-day sign-up, which is only offered if the race hasn't sold out.
- Be there when Santa arrives on race morning and have your camera ready for photos with him.
- Bring a toy for the race-morning toy drive if you'd like to give back along with the charities the run supports.
Special Events & Promotions
- Virtual 5K and 1 Mile option: run on your own time and have your race package shipped to you.
- Toy drive on race morning: bring a toy to donate.
- Every registered runner gets a 2026 commemorative item, still to be revealed.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What do runners get?
Every registered runner gets a finisher medal, a 2026 commemorative item that hasn't been revealed yet, a Santa hat and beard, holiday treats and free race photos.
Where do I pick up my packet?
Early pickup is at A Snail's Pace in Fountain Valley (8780 Warner Ave) on Friday, December 18. You can also pick up at the Great Park on race morning. Someone else can collect your packet if they bring a copy or photo of your ID.
Can I bring a stroller?
Yes, but start at the back. Register any child 18 months or older, since they'll want a medal too.
Can I register on race day?
Yes, race-day registration is available unless the race sells out.
How can I support a cause?
You can donate to one of the local charity partners, or bring a toy for the toy drive on race morning.
More Christmas Events Near Irvine
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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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.