Holiday family fun runs are an easy win this time of year: a little fresh air, a little movement, and a lot of festive energy — all without committing to a full training plan. When cold, dark days make it tempting to stay inside, these seasonal races offer a reason to bundle up, head outdoors, and make movement feel like part of the celebration.
From short kids’ dashes to stroller-friendly 5Ks and dog-welcoming runs, these holiday fun runs around Seattle are designed with families in mind. Whether you’re in it for the lights, the costumes, the hot chocolate at the finish line, or just a chance to burn off some pre-cookie energy, there’s a race here worth lacing up for.
Saturday, December 6
The Electric Cookie Run | Saturday, December 6 | 5 p.m.| Green Lake | $49-$59 | Register | Ages 12 and under can participate in Kids’ races. For 5K and longer, races ages 6-12 must be accompanied by a parent, and kids under age 6 are not allowed | Justify your holiday cookie consumption in style at the Electric Cookie Run! Dress up in some fun holiday regalia, including some lights! No dogs or strollers allowed.
Sunday, December 7
Holiday on the Bay 5K | Sunday, December 7 | 9 a.m. | Port of Everette | $18.34-$56.04 | Register | All ages | We encourage runners and walkers of all skill levels to join in on the fun and be sure to don your best blue and white winter-themed garb for the race.
K9 Candy Cane Run | Sunday, December 7 | 9:15 a.m. | Renton Community Center | 4-17, $30, 17 and up $40 | Register | All ages | Families (with or without) dogs are all invited. If registered before 10 a.m. on Friday, November 21, participants will receive a hooded sweatshirt. Don’t forget about our Annual Pet Food Drive for furry friends in need, help us FILL THE TRUCK! Strollers welcome, read the rules for dogs on the site.
Saturday, December 13
Christmas Rush Fun Run and Walk | Saturday, December 13 | 9:50 a.m. | Hogan Park, Kent | Ages 13 and under free, others, $20-$35 | Registration opens October 10 | All ages | If you don’t want to buy a shirt, you can check out their “garage sale” and purchase a previous year’s shirt for $5. There will be no shirts available on race day. Strollers allowed, but no dogs.
(Image: Seattle’s Child)
Sunday, December 14
12 K’s of Christmas | Sunday, December 14 | 9 a.m. | Marina Park, Kirkland | Cost and registration TBD | All ages | Join this fun holiday 12K and 5K run at Marina Park, Kirkland. They also have a Little Elf Run for the kids! Strollers allowed, but not dogs.
Jingle Bell Run | December 14 | 8:30 a.m. | Gas Works Park | Cost TBD | Registration | All ages | Get ready for the Jingle Bell Run, the original festive race for charity brought to you by the Arthritis Foundation. Wear your favorite holiday gear! There will be a Kids’ Fun Run with the Elves. Dogs and strollers are allowed.
Satuday, December 20
Holiday Fun Run | Saturday, December 20 | 10 a.m. | Magnuson Park | $6-$42 | Register | All ages | It’s time to spread some holiday cheer, and miles! We have our classic 5k, 10k, 15k runs and kids’ dash. After you cross the finish line, you can treat yourself to our hot chocolate bar. Holiday sweaters, hats, and socks are all encouraged. Prizes for best dressed! Strollers and dogs are allowed.
Wednesday, December 24
Jingle Bell Run at Wright Park | Wednesday, December 24 | 9 a.m. & 11 a.m. | Wright Park, Tacoma | $30 | Register | Ages 6 and up | Come enjoy a much-deserved break while the kids burn off energy at the return of the Jingle Bell Run. This 3-mile holiday run/walk is a family favorite and a great way to spend quality time outdoors during the busy holiday season. Parks Tacoma is partnering with Tacoma Rescue Mission to collect donations for warm winter items and essential goods. Strollers allowed, but no dogs.
