Run Elf Run!
Participants can lace up their running shoes for a 5K run/walk or a 0.25-mile Santa Kids' Run through downtown Pontiac. Every registered runner receives a custom race medal, long-sleeve tee-shirt, race bib, and finish line refreshments, including pretzels with beer for adults or soft drinks for runners under 21. Top finishers and age-group winners compete for candy cane trophies and certificates for running shoes.
What to Expect
Festive 5K run/walk and kids' run in downtown Pontiac.
Event Details
Food & Drink
Finish-line refreshments include a pretzel and beer for participants 21 and older, or a pretzel and soft drink for participants under 21.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children and recreational runners
Vibe
Festive and active
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: 5K Run/Walk: $30; price increases after October 22, 2026 at 11:59pm EDT. 0.25 Mile Santa Kids' Run: $10. – Get tickets
- Hours: 5K Run/Walk: 8:00AM EST–8:59AM EST; 0.25 Mile Santa Kids' Run: 9:00AM EST–9:30AM EST. Packet pickup: Friday, December 4, 3:00–7:00PM; race morning, December 5, 6:30–8:00AM.
Tips & Advice
- Register for either the 5K or the Santa Kids’ Run, since the two races have separate registration options.
- Pick up your packet at the 7 North building, either on the Friday before the race or on race morning.
- Choose the 5K registration before October 22 to avoid the listed later price increase.
- Plan for the finish-line refreshments: participants under 21 receive a soft drink and pretzel, while participants over 21 receive beer and a pretzel.
- Use the course map when preparing for the race so you can review the route in advance.
Special Events & Promotions
- A separately registered Santa Kids’ Run has its own start time.
- Overall male and female 5K winners receive a certificate for a free pair of running shoes.
- Overall male and female finishers placing first through third receive candy cane trophies; age-group winners also receive trophies.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What race options are available?
Choose between a 5K Run/Walk and the 0.25-mile Santa Kids’ Run; each has its own registration.
Is there a specific age requirement for either race?
No age eligibility is given for the races. Participants under 21 receive a soft drink and pretzel at the finish, while those over 21 receive beer and a pretzel.
What do participants receive?
All participants receive a custom race medal, long-sleeve T-shirt, race bib and finish-line refreshments.
Where can I pick up my race packet?
Packet pickup is at the 7 North building, 7 N. Saginaw St., with an additional pickup period on race morning.
Are there awards for race finishers?
Overall 5K winners receive candy-cane trophies, and age-group winners in 10-year increments also receive trophies. Overall male and female 5K winners receive a certificate for running shoes.
More Christmas Events near Pontiac
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