Santa's Run Fest

Winter Haven Optimist Club proudly presents the Santa's Run Fest - A Run for Our Kids. Choose a 10k or 5k and sign then kids up for the Kid Dashes!

Due to future construction and traffic flow around Lake Howard around late 2023 and 2024, this year's event will be held Back at our old location in Downtown Winter Haven, Next to The Winter of Chamber of Commerce Building. (There will be NO Half Marathon for 2024)

Winter Haven is a beautiful city of approximately 35,000 friendly folks. As the Chamber of Commerce mentions, "To some we're the perfect haven from the harsh winter months up North, and to others we are the opportunity to be involved in a town with over 55 lakes to enjoy with fantastic sunrises and sunsets over the water" ...AND an absolutely superb terrain for running.

This years 10k and 5k Course will run the Chain of Lakes Trail with a small trip around Lake Silver. The courses include gentle rises, enough to cause pressure for the advanced competitors but not so much to frustrate the average person.

Runners will receive a custom shirt (sizes guaranteed if pre-registered before November 27, 2023), a custom bib, and a finisher medal when you cross the line on race day! Race packets will also include goodies from race sponsors.

Early Race Packet Pickup - Friday, December 15, 2023

4:00-7:00 pm - In The Breezeway of The Winter Haven Chamber Of Commerce Building - 401 Avenue B NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881

Day of Race - Saturday, December 16, 2023

START LOCATION! Next To The Winter Haven Chamber of Commerce Building on 4th Street NW & Ave B NW - 401 Avenue B NW, Winter Haven, FL 33881

6:00 am - Race Packet Pickup and Day of race registration

7:00 am - 10k Start

7:15 am - 5k Start

8:30 am - Awards Awards Ceremony for the 5K (Please check your times in the kiosks for unofficial results after you finish your race)

8:45 am - Awards Ceremony for the 10K (Approx Time) (Please check your times in the kiosks for unofficial results after you finish your race)

8:30-9:00 am - Approx. start for the Kids races