As the city begins to transform into a winter wonderland, there are so many things to do this holiday season. You can shop as a family for a Christmas tree or visit one of the eight themed villages in Downtown. Although we love to see beautiful decorative lights or visit Santa Claus, there’s still only one activity that’s perfect to do as a family–go for a run, right? Yes, the temperatures are getting low but getting your relatives and even friends together for a nice, competitive run is the reason for the season. Check out this list to learn more about jingle bell runs happening this December. 

A Charlie Brown Christmas 5K

Energy Corridor

Start your day bright and early with this 5K kicking off at 8 a.m. All ages are welcome, whether you’re being pushed in a stroller or need assistance from a walker. This run offers the 5K for adults and a Snoopy Dash for kids under 12. Registration fees are $50 for the 5K and $40 for the kids untimed run. Participants are also encouraged to bring toy donations to benefit the Memorial Assistance Ministries Christmas Share Program.

Houston’s 12K of Christmas

Sam Houston Park

Celebrating its ninth year, this Christmas-themed run consists of a 6K and12K for adults, both of which start promptly at 7:30 a.m. There will also be a 1K run for kids beginning at 9:30 a.m. Registration fees are $50 for the 12K, $40 for the 6K, and $20 for the 1K. If the long distance running isn’t for you, the event is also seeking volunteers to help before and during the race. As you’re getting your run on, Santa and his elves will be making an appearance. 

Rudolph Fun Run

Memorial City

Do you think you can run like Rudolph? Test your skills with either a Cupid 1K, Rudolph 5K, or Dasher 10K. Starting at City Centre, runners will travel through the surrounding neighborhoods whether their race is timed or untimed. The 1K will begin at 7:40 a.m. followed by the 5K and 10K at 8:05 a.m. The fun run will also include a Christmas costume contest, pictures with Santa Claus, and delicious mimosas. Registration costs $55 for the Dasher (timed) and $45 (untimed), $50 for the Rudolph (timed) and $40 (untimed), and $20 for the Cupid. Proceeds will benefit the Houston Children’s H and participants and their families are encouraged to make toy donations as well. 

Santa Dash Fun Run

Pearland

With a focus on supporting over 100,000 kids across the state of Texas who have been diagnosed with cancer, B.I.G. Love is hosting their annual run for a good claus. As their largest fundraiser, this fun run will help them to reach their goal of  $175,000. Consisting of a 10K, 5K, Kids Mile, Kids Dash, and Little Kids Bash, the run will begin at 7:30 a.m. and will journey through the Pearland Town Center Mall. Breakfast will be served and all runners and onlookers are encouraged to wear your best holiday gear whether it's elf ears or ugly Christmas sweaters. During the duration of the races there will also be a holiday market, photos with Santa, and carnival games.