About the 2026 Jingle Bell Run
The race starts and finishes at the United Way office in Dayton, and the mood skews more costume parade than stopwatch. Dogs on leash are welcome, strollers are fine for walkers, and Christmas costumes are actively encouraged. There is a team challenge with trophies for categories like largest group and most festive, so people tend to show up in coordinated outfits.
Packet pickup runs the evening before at the United Way office, with race-morning pickup also available there. Street parking is on the surrounding blocks. Restrooms are inside the office. After the race, Santa is on hand for photos while results are tallied, and dogs are welcome in those photos too.
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Distances & Start Times
5K12/5/2026 08:30$35
1 Mile12/5/2026 08:30$20
Going for a Time?
Set a goal and get a pace band: every mile split on a card sized for your phone lock screen, so race morning needs no math.
Not sure what to aim for? The 5K pace chart lists the pace for every finish time.
Where to Stay
Traveling for this race? The map shows hotels and rentals in and around Dayton — pan or zoom to compare what's nearby.
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