The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge 2026

The race.

The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge takes place December 12, 2026, in Melrose, MA, at the Melrose Fish & Game Club. Participants can choose between a 3.5-mile cross-country race or a 2-mile non-competitive walk, both starting at noon. The cross-country course runs over hilly terrain at Mount Hood Golf Club and varies annually. Awards include nutcracker figurines for top three finishers in overall and age-group categories (19-under through 70-over), as well as top three teams. A post-race pasta lunch and cash bar are available. Race proceeds benefit Housing Families, Inc. and Melrose High School XC teams. Bib pickup is available Friday, December 11 from 3–7 pm at Marathon Sports or race morning from 10:00–11:45 am at the venue. Race day registration runs 10:00–11:30 am. The event is capped at 250 entrants.