Rotary Santa Run 5K & 1 mile Family Fun Walk & Elf kids run 2026

The race.

The Evansville Rotary Santa Run takes place on Saturday, December 5, 2026, at 9 a.m., starting from Buffalo Trace Council at 3501 E Lloyd Expressway. Participants can choose between a 5K run or 1-mile walk through east-side Evansville neighborhoods on a relatively flat course. A separate Santa Elf kids run begins at 8:30 a.m. with distances of 50, 100, or 150 meters for ages 1–9; all kids finishers receive medals. The 5K awards overall fastest male and female runners with trophies and age-group medalists across 17 categories. A Most Spirited Award category recognizes the jolliest Santa suits across five divisions: families, teams, kids, young adults (10–18), and adults 19+. Packet pickup and Santa suit distribution occur Friday, December 4, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. or race morning from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. at the start location. Post-race refreshments include donut balls, fruit, hot chocolate, and coffee.