Sleigh the Day at Silver Springs
Kick off the holiday season on the trails at Sleigh the Day, a Christmas-themed 5K and 10K trail run on Saturday, December 5, 2026 inside world-famous Silver Springs State Park in Ocala, Florida. Swap the crowded shopping lines for shaded forest paths, crisp December air, and a start line full of Santa hats, ugly sweaters, and holiday cheer.
Known for its crystal-clear springs, glass-bottom boats, towering moss-draped oaks, and abundant wildlife, Silver Springs is an unforgettable place to run. Whether you are chasing a podium spot, stepping onto the trails for the first time, or just jingling your way to the finish with friends, there is a distance for you.
And the rewards are almost as memorable as the course. Every finisher takes home a custom holiday finisher medal, plus a Sleigh the Day race shirt in heather Kelly green with the full-color crashed-sleigh design. Short sleeve for the 5K, long sleeve for the 10K.
Come for the run. Stay for the springs. Leave with some seriously festive bling.
Events
5k Trail Run
10k Trail Run
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5k Trail Run
10k Trail Run
The Course at Silver Springs
Silver Springs State Park is one of Florida's oldest attractions, famous for its crystal-clear headspring and the glass-bottom boats that have been showing off the springs since the 1870s. On race morning, you trade the boats for trail shoes.
Both courses follow the park's natural-surface trails under moss-draped live oaks and tall pines. Expect packed sand, roots, gentle rollers, and plenty of shade. Keep an eye out for deer, wading birds, and the park's famous wild monkeys.
- 5K Trail Run – 8:00 a.m. start. The shorter, festive option, perfect for first-time trail runners and walkers.
- 10K Trail Run – 8:10 a.m. start. More miles of trail for runners who want to go the distance.
Course maps will be posted here as race day gets closer.
What You Get
🎽 Official Race Shirt
Every runner gets the Sleigh the Day shirt in heather Kelly green with the full-color crashed-sleigh design.
5K: short-sleeve tee
10K: long-sleeve tee
🏅 Holiday Finisher Medal
Cross the finish line and earn a custom Sleigh the Day finisher medal. Every finisher gets one, in both the 5K and the 10K, walkers included.
🏆 Age Group Awards
Awards for the top finishers in each age group in both the 5K and the 10K. Chase a podium spot or just jingle your way to the finish.
Race Information
Sleigh the Day 5K & 10K Trail Race
Saturday, December 5 | Silver Springs State Park | Ocala, Florida
Kick off the holiday season on the trails at Sleigh the Day, a Christmas-themed 5K and 10K trail race at one of Florida's most beautiful state parks. Swap the crowded shopping lines for shaded forest paths, crisp December air, and a start line full of Santa hats, ugly sweaters, and holiday cheer.
Whether you're chasing a podium spot or just jingling your way to the finish, Sleigh the Day is built for every kind of runner. Seasoned trail runners will enjoy a true off-road course through the natural Florida landscape of Silver Springs, and first-time trail runners will find a welcoming, festive way to try something new. Walkers, families, and running groups are all encouraged to join the fun.
Race Times
5K Trail Race: 8:00 a.m.
10K Trail Race: 8:10 a.m.
What You Get
10K participants receive a long-sleeve race shirt
5K participants receive a short-sleeve race shirt
Every finisher earns a holiday finisher medal
Age group awards for top finishers in both races
Holiday costumes are highly encouraged. Bring your best elf ears, reindeer antlers, or full Santa suit and help us turn the trails into a winter wonderland, Florida style.
Grab your crew, lace up your trail shoes, and come sleigh your day with us at Silver Springs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trail, all the way. Both the 5K and the 10K run on natural-surface trails inside Silver Springs State Park, with sand, roots, and some uneven footing. Trail shoes are recommended but not required. First-time trail runners are very welcome.
Absolutely. Walkers, families, and running groups are all welcome in both the 5K and the 10K. Take in the scenery, enjoy the holiday cheer, and jingle your way to the finish at your own pace.
Not required, but highly encouraged. Santa suits, elf ears, reindeer antlers, ugly sweaters, and full-on holiday glory are all welcome. Help us turn the trails into a winter wonderland, Florida style.
Yes. 5K participants receive a short-sleeve Sleigh the Day race shirt and 10K participants receive a long-sleeve version. Every finisher in both races earns a holiday finisher medal, and age group awards go to the top finishers.
The 5K Trail Run starts at 8:00 a.m. and the 10K Trail Run starts at 8:10 a.m. on Saturday, December 5, 2026. Plan to arrive early to park, check in, and get your holiday gear on before the start.
Early registration is $35 for the 5K and $55 for the 10K. Prices increase after September 30, 2026, so grab your spot early and lock in the lowest price.
Silver Springs State Park, 5656 E Silver Springs Blvd, Silver Springs, FL 34488, just east of Ocala. The park is home to the world-famous Silver Springs and its glass-bottom boats, and the race runs on the natural trails inside the park. Check the map on this page for directions.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about this race, click the button below.
Location
Silver Springs
5656 E Silver Springs Blvd
Silver Springs, FL 34488 US
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