Lakewood Park (corner of Lake and Belle), Lakewood OH
Sunday, December 13th, 2026
About the Reindeer Run
- Holiday Tradition: The Reindeer Run is a holiday tradition in Lakewood, Ohio, including a 5K road race, Merry Mile (1 mile walk), and b.a. Sweetie Dasher Dash (quarter-mile race).
- 27th Annual Event: This year, the Reindeer Run celebrates its 27th year running on Sunday, December 13, 2026, at Lakewood Park!
Who does this event benefit?
- Charity: This year's Reindeer Run benefits Love Doesn’t Shove.
- More Info: More information can be found HERE.
Registration Information
- Online Registration: Online registration opens July 1 and closes 30 minutes before the start on race morning on December 13.
- Website: Participants can register online at ReindeerRunCleveland.com.
- Check Payments: Those paying by check can mail a paper entry form HERE with payment to Hermes Sports & Events (2425 W. 11th St. Suite 2, Cleveland, OH 44113).
- Payment Deadline: Payments must be received by Wednesday, December 10.
2025 Fees
- 5K - Early Bird: $35 (July 1 - Dec 1)
- 5K - Late Rate: $40 (Dec 2 - Race Day)
- Kids Registration: $25 (10 & under)
- Dasher Dash: $10 (8 & under)
Refer and Save $
- Referral Program: This race is offering up to a $30 refund on your registration just by referring your friends to participate!
- Credit System: For every 3 participants to register using your personalized shareable referral code, you will receive $10 back on your original form of payment - maximum 9 referrals!
- Additional Details: More info is available HERE.
What's Included
- Timed Race: A Chip Timed 5K with Live Results.
- Swag Bag: A Reindeer Run Swag Apparel Item.
- Finisher Medal: A Reindeer Run Finisher Medal Ornament to display on your holiday tree!
- Pictures: Searchable Race Photographs with Santa & Dasher.
Packet Pick-Up Information
- Early Pickup: Early pickup dates & locations listed HERE later in the year!
- Picking Up for Others: Participants can pick up for others, but should have their confirmation email handy just to be safe.
- Race Day Pickup: Race Day pickup is available, but participants should plan to arrive early, as lines may be long!
Race Day Logistics & Information
- Parking: Parking is available in and around Lakewood Park (14532 Lake Ave, Lakewood, OH 44107).
- Event Schedule: Dasher Dash – 8:45 AM: 5K Run – 9:00 AM on Sunday, December 13, 2026.
- Registration Time: Race Day registration/packet pickup begins at 7:30 AM.
Timing, Results & Awards
- Timing System: The race is officially timed using a disposable Bib tag timing system with state-of-the-art Mylaps timing mats.
- Bib Requirements: All registered participants will receive a race bib number with a timing tag stuck to the back.
- Results Access: Results are posted LIVE on the Reindeer Run website.
- Contact for Issues: Contact roadracing@hermescleveland.com if results are incorrect or missing.
Awards Categories
- Overall Awards: Top 3 overall male & female finishers in the 5K.
- Age Group Awards: Top 3 finishers (male & female) in various age groups.
- Senior Division: The Jess Bell Senior Division Awards for top male and female finishers 60+.
Refunds & Transfers
- No Refunds: All entries are non-refundable & non-transferable to future races.
- Entry Transfer: You can transfer your entry to another person for free before packet pickup!
- How to Transfer: Log into RunSignUp and choose "Gift Transfer".
If I can't attend, can I still get my t-shirt and packet?
- Packet Pickup: Yes! Pick up at our office the following week or at packet pickup.
- No Mailing: We do not mail packets after the event.
Miscellaneous
- Volunteer: Yes! Volunteer opportunities will be listed on the race website after registration opens in July.
- Walking: Walking is welcome, but police may ask late walkers to move to the sidewalk after 10am.
- Weather: Cleveland weather is unpredictable! Expect brisk temps in the 30s.
- Course: The course is flat & fast – perfect for a 5K PR!
Contact & Updates
- Race Updates: Yes! We’ll send packet pickup reminders before race week.
- Contact Info: Check the Reindeer Run page, email roadracing@hermescleveland.com, or call us at 216-623-9933.
Race Details
- Dog & Stroller: Dogs and strollers are welcome, but please start at the back of the pack for safety.
- Registration Confirmation: Bring your registration confirmation if picking up a packet.
Get Involved
- Find more about the race at the Reindeer Run page
