In 94 days · Sat, Dec 5, 2026
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Saturday, December 5th, 2026
North Side Middle School, Elkhart IN
5K · 1 Mile
27–39°F · low rain risk
See last 10 years
On this date: rain 4 of the last 10 years
2025
2–25°F
dry
2024
17–28°F
rain
2023
32–37°F
rain
2022
27–42°F
dry
2021
32–47°F
rain
2020
30–36°F
dry
2019
29–43°F
dry
2018
24–29°F
dry
2017
28–59°F
rain
2016
28–35°F
dry
Best months to race in Indiana →
About this race
Event Overview
The Elkhart Education Foundation is excited to host the annual Ugly Sweater 5K Run/Walk and 1.5 Mile Sweater Stroll. This is a fun-filled event for every person: the serious runner, the recreational jogger, walkers, and our furry friends!
Ugly Sweater Contest
- Tacky Sweater: Wear your tackiest sweater and you may win the Ugliest Sweater Contest!
Race Details
- Timed Events: The 5K Run and Walk is timed: the 1.5 mile walk is not timed.
- Registration Includes: Race experience, choice of hat, Jumbotron, finisher medals for all, costume awards, and post-race hot cocoa and treats!
- Pre-Race Fun: Take some fun pics at the photo booth before the race!
- Finish Line Refreshments: Enjoy hot chocolate from a student-led food truck for $3, granola bars, and water!
New Venue Details
Location: The race has moved to North Side Middle School, 300 East Lawrence, Elkhart.
- Indoor Comfort: Plenty of room to stay warm before or after in the spacious gym!
- Scenic Route: The scenic course will include much of the same area as last year, through some charming small parks.
- Weather Consideration: You never know what the weather is going to be like in December!
2026 New Features
- New Course: New course for the 1.5 Mile that includes Wellfield Gardens!
- Dog Policy: Dogs are not allowed in Wellfield Gardens: however, they are welcome on the 5K if trained for the distance.
Packet Pickup
- Friday, December 4: From 4:00 - 6:00 pm at Elkhart Health & Aquatics, Community Meeting Rooms, 200 East Jackson, Elkhart.
- Saturday, December 5: At North Side Middle School gym from 7:00 am - 8:15 am.
Awards
- Finisher Medals: Finisher medals for everyone!
- Costume Awards: Get in on the fun with silly, funny sweaters! Award categories: Best Male, Best Female, Best Teen, Best Youth, Best Group!
Parking Information
There is PLENTY of free parking right at North Side Middle School, 300 East Lawrence, Elkhart. Please follow directions from our parking lot attendants!
Volunteer Opportunities
If you're not really a runner or walker but want to help, we need a lot of volunteers! Reach out and let our team know you want to help!
Register Now!
For more information and to register, visit Ugly Sweater Run 2026.
Course map
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