2026 Grinchmas Family Fun Run/Walk - Benefitting Central Coast Running Club and People for Leisure and Youth, Inc. (PLAY, Inc) event

The City of Santa Maria Recreation and Parks Department, PLAY, Inc. and Central Coast Run Club invites you to join in on the holiday fun at our second annual Grinchmas Fun Run. Run, jog, walk, or stroll, with options for all ages and abilities, this festive, family-friendly event has something for everyone. Looking for a challenge? Take on our new 10K running course! Come dressed in your holiday best, enjoy the cheer along the course, and make lasting memories filled with holiday spirit.

Strollers and leashed dogs are welcome!

Event details and schedule

Event Details:

• Pre-Event Packet Pickup: Friday 12/11 at The Collective in Santa Maria 5:00pm-7:00pm and Saturday 12/12 at The Collective 7:30am-9:30am.
• Event check in is starts at 7:00 am.
• Tiny Who Toddler Trot (3 & under) begins at 8:15 am.
• Little Who Mini Race GROUP 1 (4-6 yrs) begins at 8:30 am and GROUP 2 is immediately after.
• Little Grinch 1-mile Sprint (13 & under) begins at 8:40 am
• Grinchmas 10k (all ages) begins at 9:00 am
• Grinchmas 5K (all ages) begins at 9:15 am

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• What time should I arrive?

Participants are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes before their scheduled race start time to allow time for parking, walking to the event area, and checking in.

• Do I have to run?

Not for most race categories! Participants in the 5K and 1-Mile are welcome to run, jog, walk, or stroll at their own pace. The 10K is a running-only race and participants should be prepared to complete the full course within the designated race timeframe.

• Is the Grinchmas Fun Run timed?

Yes! The 10K, 5K, and 1-Mile Sprint will be timed, with awards presented to top finishers in each race.

• Will there be awards for top finishers?

Yes! Awards will be presented to the top three Men, Women, and Youth finishers in both the 5K and 10K. The 1-Mile Sprint will recognize the top three Youth finishers overall.

• Are strollers welcome?

Yes! We strive to make this event as family-friendly as possible. For the safety and comfort of all participants, we ask those with strollers to start toward the back of the group at the starting line.

Children riding in a stroller may participate at no additional cost with a registered adult and do not need to be registered separately.

If a child will be walking or running the course, they will need their own registration.

• Are dogs welcome?

Yes! We know dogs are part of the family too, and they are welcome to join you for the Grinchmas Fun Run. Please be courteous to other participants by keeping your dog leashed and under your control at all times.

• Where should I park?

Event parking will be available at the Pioneer Valley High School parking lot located off Panther Drive. Participants are encouraged to arrive early and allow plenty of time to park and walk to the event area before their scheduled race start time.

• Are event shirts included with registration?

Event shirts are not included with registration but are available for pre-order. A limited quantity will be available for purchase on race day, while supplies last. We encourage you to pre-order during registration.

• What is included with my registration?

Each registered participant will receive an official race bib and Grinchmas finisher medal.