Fortnight Before Christmas 2026

The race.

The Fortnight Before Christmas takes place December 12, 2026, in Cary, NC, hosted by the Northwest Cary YMCA on the Cary Greenways. Participants can choose from a 7K, 5K, 1-mile fun run, 1.67-mile option, 2.5-mile option, 0.83-mile option, kids in strollers category, or exhibitor participation. Staggered starts begin at 8:00 AM by distance, with course closure at 9:30 AM. Registration includes a Fortnight Before Christmas shirt and Santa hat for 5K and 7K participants (guaranteed with signup by November 29th); fun mile participants receive a Santa hat. Awards total over $4,000 and include overall, age group, and new course record categories. Winter hats and gloves collected benefit children and teens in the YMCA's Community Supported Programs.