About the North Dakota Santa Run
Every participant runs in a Santa suit, so the course fills with red and white from the front of the pack to the back. The race runs through Mandan during the holiday season, and the cause behind it is specific: the event raises money for a recovery-based housing program that helps people rebuilding after addiction.
The run grew out of a weekly running group started by a local judge who worked with people in recovery. That origin gives the morning a particular warmth, less about finishing time and more about what the group stands for. Post-race, the crowd tends to reflect that, people sticking around rather than heading straight to their cars.
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Distances & Start Times
5K12/12/2026 16:15$38
5K12/12/2026 16:15$30
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
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