So, you’re considering joining the fun for this year’s Las Vegas Great Santa Run? Maybe you’ve already registered.
Thank you! Get ready for the best fun you’ve ever had in a Santa suit.
The iconic 5k run and 1-mile walk follows a downtown Las Vegas course. You’ll pass all your favorite Vegas landmarks while reveling in the entertainment only Vegas can bring to the party. The Las Vegas Great Santa Run is an all-ages event, and children under 3 are free. Pets, strollers, wheelchairs, and walkers are welcome.
And all while raising money to help adults with disabilities in our local community.
What You’ll Learn:
- About the Las Vegas Great Santa Run race
- How to get involved
- Frequently asked questions
- How to prepare for the race
- What to do after the race
- Register
About the Race
Let’s dig a little deeper into this unforgettable Vegas tradition — once you’ve attended, you’ll never want to miss it.
What’s Special About the Race?
Now in its 21st year, the annual Las Vegas Great Santa Run is a staple community event. Come on down on December 6 to see why it’s grown to be among the world’s largest gatherings of Santas.
Celebrate the holiday season while raising money for Opportunity Village — supporting our mission of employing, empowering, and serving adults with disabilities in our community.
When else can you see a giant pack of Santas running through the streets of downtown Las Vegas?
Where Do the Proceeds from the Race Go?
All proceeds from the day directly support people with disabilities in Southern Nevada through Opportunity Village’s tailored disability services.
Since 1954, we’ve been dedicated to helping people with disabilities find the very best version of themselves. Through workforce development, community employment, day services, inclusive housing, arts and social recreation, they can find new friends, realize future career paths, seek independence and community integration, and unleash creative passions.
Opportunity Village thrives with the funding from our social enterprises, signature events like the Las Vegas Great Santa Run and HallOVeen, and the generous philanthropy of our donors and community partners.
Together, we are successfully empowering, employing, and serving people with disabilities — positively impacting lives.
Thank you to our Presenting Sponsors: CircleK and Fox5 KVUU-TV
How Else Can I Get Involved if I Don’t Want to Race?
Not everybody wants to or can run or walk the course. Do you still want to help? There are a few ways you can.
Fundraising
Pass your virtual (or literal) hat around and raise much-needed funds for some of our most vulnerable locals. We even have prizes this year for fundraising! You can find a template fundraising ask letter, social media graphics, a printable flyer, and social media toolkit here.
Some examples of how your fundraising helps:
Donate: $25
How it helps: Purchases food for OV’s desert tortoise, Tulip, who teaches adults with disabilities how to care for animals.
What you’ll receive: One ticket to the Magical Forest to utilize during the 2025 season
Donate: $100
How it helps: Give the gift of functional communications and support. This amount purchases communication apps, speech buttons, and PECS materials.
What you’ll receive: Santa Run Cup with Straw
Check out all of the donation examples here.
Help Us Entertain Our Participants
We also run a lot of entertainment over the day — do you have a band or want to donate your talents to the pre- or post-race festivities? Get in touch!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the race located?
Downtown Las Vegas Events Center, 200 S. 3rd Street
Where should I park?
There’s plenty of parking downtown nearby in parking garages and on the street. Get there early to enjoy the pre-race festivities and avoid the crowds.
Can I bring my dog?
We don’t forget about our four-legged friends — pets are welcome to attend and even race with you.
How do I get the Santa outfit?
When you pick up your race packet, you’ll receive your Santa suit to join the other jolly Santas on the course.
While supplies last, registration includes:
- a five-piece Santa suit
- your finisher medal
- the swag bag…
…and the chance to experience this memorable event. View the packet pickup information here.
Will there be water on the course?
Yes. We’ll have water on the course. You’ll also have access to water beforehand in the festival grounds. And there’ll be a post-race party — so be sure to stay for the festivities.
What’s the prize for finishing?
When you cross that finish line, you’ll get a Vegas-themed finisher’s medal.
2023 Finisher Medal for The Las Vegas Great Santa Run by Opportunity Village
How can I best prepare for the race?
First of all, remember that the day is all about fundraising for a good cause and having a great time. No need to take anything too seriously. But here are some things you can do to help you through the 5K.
(These are sample plan ideas and you should check with your physician before starting any new exercise program.)
The day before
- Stretch and relax: Spend some time stretching or maybe doing light yoga. It’ll help you stay flexible. Also, be sure to get a good night’s sleep.
- Check the weather: Nevada can get cold in December, so dress in layers if needed to stay warm.
- Hydrate: Drink water throughout the day — dehydration can zap your energy.
- Eat some carbs: Have a balanced meal with carbs like pasta, rice, or potatoes. It’s fuel for your run.
- Plan your race: Get to know the course, but don’t overthink it.
On race day
- Easy morning: Wake up without rushing, but give yourself plenty of time to spare.
- Balanced breakfast: Eat a light breakfast with carbs and some protein. Stick to what you know.
- Stay relaxed: Take some deep breaths if you feel a little unsure. Imagine a leisurely jog with friends (and plenty of fun along the way!)
- Hydrate: Sip water, don’t chug. No need to stress about perfect timing.
- Start calm: Begin at an easy pace — it’s not a sprint!
- Follow the flow: Stick to the course, enjoy the surroundings, and take it easy.
- Finish with a grin: As you spot the finish line, give it a little kick, but don’t strain yourself — there’s still the after-party to enjoy next.
What are some things we can do after the race?
Join us for a celebration. Nobody knows how to party like an oversized group of happy Santas in Vegas (who’ve just raised much-needed funds for locals in need). We want to celebrate your accomplishments and say thanks for helping the community, so join us for a festival-like party after the race.
Won’t You Join Us?
Find out more about registration and sign up today!
