The Santa Monica-Venice Christmas Run is Los Angeles’ largest holiday running event and a great fundraiser.
The Christmas Run was started in 1977 with 10,000 runners participating in the race. For over three decades, it has not only remained a highly popular local run but the event has become an integral part of the Los Angeles community during the holiday season. For many, the Christmas Run is the true start of the holidays.
The race start is adjacent to Santa Monica Beach on Barnard Way near the intersection of Ocean Park Blvd. The Christmas Run 5K and 10K will run south from Santa Monica, down the world famous Venice Boardwalk, meander onto the scenic streets of Venice and finish at Windward Plaza, home to the iconic Venice Pavilion. Join us for the finish line festival with costume contests, music, vendors, holiday inflatables and more. Bring the whole family and celebrate the holidays with your running friends.
View race, parking details, road closures, and photos below!
Important Times and Locations:
Start Line: Ocean View Park 2701 Barnard Way, Santa Monica
Finish Line and Kids Fun Run Start Line at the iconic Venice Sign. Windward Ave & Pacific Ave, Venice
- 6:30 am – Packet Pickup/Registration Opens
- 7:30 am – 5K Start
- 8:30 am – 10K Start
- 8:30 am – 5K Costume Contest
- 10:00 am – 10K Costume Contest
- 10:00 am – Kids Fun Run Start
The Finish Line and Kid’s Fun Run Starting Line is at the iconic Venice Sign. Thing to do at the Venice Sign is snap a selfie and @christmasrun #VeniceSign @VeniceSign @VeniceBeachFun.
Photo courtesy of ChristmasRun.com
Venice Paparazzi’s Edizen and Kaj Larsen
Surfside Venice at Windward Ave.
The Finish Line – Winter Wonderland at Windward Ave.
