Girls dash down Garnet Avenue during the one-mile kid run. Photo by Chris Stone
Girls dash down Garnet Avenue during the one-mile kid run. Photo by Chris Stone

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

With 7,000 Santas ready to hit Pacific Beach, the 12th annual run might be the biggest and brightest yet – the largest Santa Run in its history.

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. There is also a “Santa’s Elves” Kids Run at 11:30 a.m. and a “Santa’s Little Helper” Doggie Dash at noon.

Recognized as one of the largest Santa Runs in the U.S., the event is followed by the community’s Holiday Parade at 1 p.m. Cheer on runners along Garnet Avenue, then settle in for the 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.”

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.