On Saturday, July 26, 2025, Chattanooga’s Hubert Fry Center at RiverPark will be transformed into a festive wonderland for the Christmas in July Night Run, a nighttime celebration of holiday cheer with 5K, 10K, and half marathon options starting at 8:00 PM EDT for the half marathon.
Part of the Run Santa Run series produced locally by RunRhino (formerly ScenicCityMultisport), this themed race brings the winter holidays to the sultry summer evenings—think Santa hats, Christmas music piped along the course, candy fuel stations, and a Santa sighting mile marker or two.
Runners will log six loops around the paved RiverWalk trail, with water and Gatorade every 2.2 miles, and extra refreshments—including Marten “Gu”s, bananas—waiting at the finish line. The flat, fast course, illuminated by holiday lights and energized by festive décor, provides a lively summer twist on the traditional winter race.
What makes this race special is its playful spirit: runners embrace holiday attire, the event leans heavily into fun over formality, and the nighttime setting elevates it from a typical road race to a unique summer street party. While it does offer awards for overall and age‑group performances, it’s more of a community‑focused adventure than an elite event.
Though participant counts are modest (typical for RunRhino events), the family-friendly atmosphere, team discounts, virtual options, and guaranteed swag (via early registration) deliver charm and value in equal measure.
