Sunday, December 24, 2023 in Santa Monica, CA
Get ready for a festive and fun-filled running experience with the Holiday Fun 5K, 10K, 15K, and Half Marathon run/walk! This event, taking place on Sunday, December 24th, is the perfect way to infuse some holiday spirit into your running routine.
The day kicks off with bib pick-up from 7:10 to 7:30 AM, setting the stage for an exciting morning ahead. At 7:30 AM, the starting signal goes off, and runners and walkers of all ages and abilities set off on their chosen routes, ranging from the 5K to the Half Marathon.
One of the unique aspects of the Holiday Fun event is the emphasis on creating a relaxed, friendly, and personal racing experience. It’s not just about the competition; it’s about coming together to celebrate the joy of running during the holiday season. The atmosphere is informal, and participants are encouraged to enjoy themselves and the beautiful surroundings.
The race course is designed to be straightforward and easy to follow. The routes consist of counter-clockwise loops along the beach path, clearly marked to guide participants along their chosen distance. The 5K involves one loop, the 10K features two loops, the 15K covers three loops, and the Half Marathon takes runners through three 4.36-mile loops. With such a layout, you won’t need to worry about getting lost on your run – just follow the loop!
The race headquarters are located at 2000 Ocean Ave. in Santa Monica, CA, accessible from the beach path off Bay St. and Ocean Ave., near Crescent Bay Park. To make your arrival hassle-free, there’s free parking on the street until 9 AM. After 9 AM, you can pay for parking at meters using quarters or credit cards. Keep in mind that on Saturday, there is street sweeping from 7-9 AM, so be sure to check the signs to avoid parking in restricted areas. For those who prefer the beach parking lot, it offers an all-day flat fee, usually ranging from $8 to $12, depending on the season. Just pay through the machine or when the booth is open.
At the Holiday Fun event, everyone gets more than just a run; it’s a festive gathering of like-minded individuals, celebrating the holiday season through the joy of running. To capture the memories, the organizers take pictures that are available for free download on their Facebook page. Runners will also receive their race times and rankings on the results page at www.abetterworldrunning.com.
So, whether you’re aiming to conquer a personal best or simply enjoy a leisurely run amidst the holiday spirit, the Holiday Fun run/walk offers a memorable way to celebrate the season with fellow runners and walkers. Join us on December 24th for this fantastic holiday event, and make your Christmas Eve one to remember!
Race Weather & Climate
Nestled along the Pacific Coast, Santa Monica, California, is a coastal treasure.
Late December in Santa Monica, CA typically features average high temperatures between 59-63°F and average low temperatures around 47-51°F. This time of year falls in the midst of winter, characterized by cooler and pleasant weather. Precipitation levels remain modest, creating a comfortable and cool late December environment along the shore.
Holiday Fun Half Marathon Course Map
See the race route map for the Holiday Fun Half Marathon course map here.
Starting Time
The half marathon start time is 7:30 AM.
Race Fees
- There is a $39.99 fee for the half marathon.
- There is a $25.99 fee for the 5k.
- There is a $29.99 fee for the 10k.
- There is a $35.99 fee for the 15k.
