Illustration of a santa visit scene (Christmas in Meridian Winter Lights Parade & Tree Lighting)
Other Christmas Activities

Christmas in Meridian Winter Lights Parade & Tree Lighting

Participants take to the starting line for a holiday run and walk in Kent. The course leads runners and walkers along the scenic Green River. Following the race, awards are presented to participants in each age group.

What to Expect

Scenic 10K run and 5K run/walk along the Green River.

Event Details

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Old Town Meridian

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

City of Meridian

Get Tickets

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Runners, walkers, and families with active kids

Vibe

Festive and active

Energy Level

High

Photo Friendly

Moderate

Weather Sensitivity

High

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Participants 13 and under run free courtesy of Taylor Farms. Race-day registration is $25 starting at 8 a.m.; current-year shirts are not available on race day. – Get tickets
  • Hours: 10k: 9:50 a.m.; 5k: 10:00 a.m.
  • Parking: Hogan Park at Russell Road, 24400 Russell Road, Kent, WA.
  • Accessibility: Strollers are welcome. Line up at a sensible spot at the start.
  • Pets: Dogs should stay at home during the Christmas Rush because of the number of people on the course and tight quarters at the start.

Tips & Advice

  • Pre-register if you want this year's race shirt, because people who sign up on race day can't get current-year shirts.
  • Pick up your packet at Road Runner Sports in Kent Station on Thursday, December 10, and collect your friends' packets while you're there.
  • Sign up the kids too, because runners 13 and under go free courtesy of Taylor Farms and awards go to every age group.
  • 10K runners should look over the new course before race day. It starts on 240th in front of the city shops and heads north on Frager Rd.
  • Pre-registration fees may not be refunded if weather or road conditions cancel the race, but organizers will try to move you to a future Kent Parks race.

Special Events & Promotions

  • New 10K course this year: it starts on 240th in front of the city shops, follows Frager Rd and crosses into Van Doren's Landing Park.
  • Kids 13 and under run free, courtesy of Taylor Farms.
  • Packet pickup is Thursday, December 10, at Road Runner Sports, Kent Station.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

What distances can I choose?

There's a 10K run and a 5K run or walk, and both follow the Green River.

Can kids take part?

Yes. Kids 13 and under run free, courtesy of Taylor Farms, and awards go to every age group after the race.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Dogs should stay home because of the number of people on the course and the tight quarters at the start.

Are strollers allowed?

Yes. Just line up at a sensible spot at the start.

Where do I pick up my packet?

Packet pickup is on Thursday, December 10, at Road Runner Sports in Kent Station, and you can pick up for friends. If you miss it, you can collect your shirt and bib on race morning.

Tags

paradestree lightingSanta visitscommunity celebrationfamily friendlyholiday traditionfestive atmosphereholiday cheerseasonal 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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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