2026 Holiday Half Marathon
A holiday-themed half at the Fairplex in Pomona, drawing 1,200 runners from a dozen states.
Race Date
Dec 20, 2026
Location
Long Beach, CA
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, December 20, 2026
- Location
- Long Beach, California
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 566
Highlights
Atmosphere
The Experience
The Holiday Half Marathon brings a festive, holiday-themed race to the Fairplex in Pomona, California. With a median field of about 1,230 finishers and runners traveling from around 12 states, it's a mid-sized event with a regional draw. The race also includes a 5K and a Kid's Penguin Waddle Run and Penguin March, adding to the family-friendly atmosphere.
The course is run on roads around the Fairplex, and while specific elevation details aren't provided, the flat terrain suggests a fast, accessible route. The event's holiday theme and Penguin Club loyalty program for returning participants give it a community feel, though repeat-runner rates are currently low.
With typical race-day weather in the upper 40s to mid-60s and low precipitation, conditions are often favorable for running. The half marathon's winning time around 70 minutes indicates a moderately competitive field. Whether you're chasing a PR or just soaking up the holiday spirit, the Holiday Half offers a welcoming stage.
Race-provided description
The Holiday Half Marathon & 5K is a holiday-themed running event held at the Fairplex in Pomona, California. The event offers a Half Marathon and 5K, along with a Kid's Penguin Waddle Run and Penguin March. It includes a Penguin Club loyalty program for returning participants, and the 2026 edition is held on a single day.
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
Solid Pick441 year running
~1,230 finishers a year
growing or steady
0% returning runners
3 timing sources
runners from 12 states
winner 1:10:55
typical high 64°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
48°
Afternoon (High)
65°
Pleasant conditions — light layers at start, comfortable by finish
0.2"
Precipitation
8 mph
Wind
80%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 566 finishers actually crossed the line across 1 year.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
566
Median time
2:12:09
Latest turnout
566
States
8
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Frequently asked
When is the 2026 Holiday Half Marathon?
The 2026 Holiday Half Marathon is held on Sunday, December 20, 2026.
Where does the 2026 Holiday Half Marathon take place?
It takes place in Long Beach, California.
What distances does the 2026 Holiday Half Marathon offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2026 Holiday Half Marathon course flat and good for a PR?
The 2026 Holiday Half Marathon is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the 2026 Holiday Half Marathon?
HalfRuns has finish records for 566 runners who have completed the 2026 Holiday Half Marathon.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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