Get Ready: 7,000 Santas to Dash Through Pacific Beach for San Diego’s Fastest Holiday Tradition Saturday

Grab your running shoes, it’s time for one of San Diego’s most festive traditions—the San Diego Santa Run. 

With 7,000 Santas ready to hit the oceanfront streets of Pacific Beach, the 2024 Santa Run might be the biggest and brightest yet, with record participation making it the largest Santa Run in its history.

The 12th annual holiday race will take place this weekend on Saturday, Dec. 14, offering a memorable way for families and friends to celebrate the holiday season. This year’s race will feature two start times for the 5K — 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. — making it easier for more participants to join in the fun.

Recognized as one of the largest Santa Runs in the United States, locals and visitors alike come together for a day of festive fitness and family fun, followed by the much-anticipated Pacific Beach Holiday Parade.

“Not only has the event become one of San Diego’s favorite holiday traditions, it’s the best day of the year in Pacific Beach,” said Eric Marenburg, race director. “There’s nothing quite like the energy of thousands of Santas running along the coast—it really captures the holiday spirit and Pacific Beach’s vibrant community.”

The Santa Run offers something for everyone, from serious runners eager to race in the 5k to families looking for a fun holiday experience at the “Santa’s Elves” Kids Run and “Santa’s Little Helper” Doggie Dash events. The event culminates with the annual Pacific Beach Holiday Parade at 1 p.m., creating a full day of festivities. Spectators lining Garnet Avenue can enjoy the sights and sounds of the parade, featuring festive floats, performers, and live entertainment.

Registration for the Santa Run includes a five-piece Santa suit complete with custom Blenders sunglasses, festive holiday snacks, and access to post-race entertainment where participants aged 21 and over can toast their run with Michelob ULTRA. For those who want to cheer on participants, the event offers prime viewing along Garnet Avenue, where spectators can enjoy festive activities and the holiday parade immediately after the races.

For more information or to register, visit www.sandiegorunningco.com.

Event Details

• Early 5K Run: 8 a.m.

• Late 5K Run: 10 a.m.

• Kids 1 Mile: 11:30 a.m.

• Dog 1 Mile: 12 p.m.

• Pacific Beach Holiday Parade: 1 p.m.