Rotary 5K Santa Run and Reindeer Dash
Arlington Heights, Illinois, United States
Dec 5, 2026 - Saturday
1mi, 5k
Race Information
The Rotary 5K Santa Run and Reindeer Dash is a great family event that kicks off the holiday season. Join the Rotary Club of Arlington Heights to form a sea of Santas and "Run for a Cause as a Clause!"
The event features a timed road course that starts and ends in Downtown Arlington Heights. There's ample free parking available, and the race offers a 5K Run, 1-Mile Walk, and a 2-Block Reindeer Dash for the kids. All runners and walkers receive finisher medals and a great swag bag that includes a Santa hat, beard, belt, coat, and pants. All reindeer Dashers receive finisher medals, reindeer antlers, and a reindeer nose.
This event is held by the Rotary Club of Arlington Heights (RCAH) to raise funds for it’s annual Community Grants Program. To date, the Rotary Club of Arlington Heights, with your assistance, has donated over $300,000 to worthy causes throughout Arlington Heights and its neighboring communities, directly as a result of the Santa Run.
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👍 Run Pick of the Month: Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon
📍Milwaukee - October 3-4, 2026
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😄 Why We Like This Run
✅PR-friendly terrain
✅ Incredible community and high-fives at every hydration station
✅ Post-race celebration with local brews, great food, and a lakefront festival that only Milwaukee can throw
Ready to experience one of the most scenic courses in the Midwest? Enjoy a fast, flat, and famously beautiful run along the stunning shores of Lake Michigan. Whether you are aiming for a Boston qualifying time or crossing your first finish line, this race offers the perfect backdrop for your next big achievement.
With options from the 5K through to the Marathon, every mile is designed to keep you moving and inspired.
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Race Facts
Race Size: 1,000 - 5,000
Elevation: Fast and Flat
Course Type: Road
Boston Qualifier: No
Kids Run: Yes
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