Santa's Sleigh 5K & Half
Washington D.C.'s Santa's Sleigh Half offers a scenic, flat out-and-back on a historic towpath.
Race Date
Dec 20, 2026
Location
Washington, DC
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, December 20, 2026
- Location
- Washington, District of Columbia
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 5K trail run
- Course
- Out & Back
- Terrain
- Trail
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 464
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Santa's Sleigh Half, first run in 2023 and now in its third year, winds its way through Washington D.C. along a historic towpath.
The course is a flat out-and-back, tracing the path between the canal and the Potomac River. With minimal elevation change, it presents a forgiving route for runners.
This race, typically drawing around 103 finishers from about 14 states, is noted for its strong production, with ample aid stations and a festive atmosphere, though the field size has been trending smaller. The event is a charitable endeavor, with organizers known for giving back to worthy causes.
Course Info
Course Type
Out & Back
Terrain
trail
Scenery
Lake River
Surface
Dirt Trail
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Quality Score
Solid Pick413 years running
~103 finishers a year
shrinking
9% returning runners
3 timing sources
runners from 14 states
winner 1:25:34
typical high 47°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
31°
Afternoon (High)
47°
Cool conditions — dress in layers, perfect for fast times
0.1"
Precipitation
11 mph
Wind
68%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 464 finishers actually crossed the line across 3 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
464
Median time
2:07:53
Latest turnout
103
States
28
Turnout by year
2023–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Frequently asked
When is the Santa's Sleigh 5K & Half?
The Santa's Sleigh 5K & Half is held on Sunday, December 20, 2026.
Where does the Santa's Sleigh 5K & Half take place?
It takes place in Washington, District of Columbia.
What distances does the Santa's Sleigh 5K & Half offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 5K trail run.
Is the Santa's Sleigh 5K & Half course flat and good for a PR?
The Santa's Sleigh 5K & Half is a ultra-flat, out & back course.
How many people run the Santa's Sleigh 5K & Half?
HalfRuns has finish records for 464 runners who have completed the Santa's Sleigh 5K & Half.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
The weekly roundup
More races like Santa's Sleigh 5K & Half, every Thursday.
Standout upcoming half marathons and fresh results in one short email. Free, and one click to leave.
Explore More Journeys
Can't make it to Washington? Discover other experiences that match your running style.
Search All Races