Crete Country Christmas 5k Grinch Run 2026 — Crete, IL

Date
December 5, 2026
Location
Crete, IL
Venue
Division and Wood Street
Start Time
8:00 AM
Entry Fee
$25.00 – $40.00
Events
Crete Country Christmas Grinch 5k (Age 13 and over), Crete Country Christmas Grinch 5k (Age 12 and Under)
Includes
Race T-Shirt
Register NowRegistration Open

Registration for the Crete Country Christmas 5K Grinch Run costs between $25 and $40. Despite its name, the event offers a 1-mile race rather than a full 5K distance. The race takes place on December 5, 2026, in Crete, Illinois, with the starting line at Division and Wood Street. The event begins at 8:00 AM, making it an early morning option for runners looking to get a holiday race completed before the day gets underway. This short distance makes it accessible for runners of various fitness levels, including those who may be newer to racing or prefer a quick winter outing.

From the Race Organizer
Gather your Christmas spirit and chase down the Grinch in our Crete Country Christmas Grinch 5K. Runners, Walkers, Strollers are all welcome to dress for the occasion in Grinch Green and come out for fun. The race will benefit the Crete Food Pantry. We ask all participants to bring a nonperishable food item to donate on the morning of the race. Included in your 5K registration: Grinch 5 K Race Shirt Fruit, water, granola provided in runner's tent. Satisfaction of completing a 5K in December Breakfast with the Grinch! The breakfast will be held from 9 am - 11 am after the race. (Seating times at 9, 9:30, 10 & 10:30) Visit Cretepark.com for Breakfast information and registration.

Hotels Near This Race

Find accommodation close to the start line in Crete, IL. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.

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Crete Country Christmas 5k Grinch Run 2026 — Crete, IL

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Race Travel Insurance

Don't forget travel insurance for December 5.

You've trained for months and booked a trip to Crete, IL. A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing. Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it, and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run 5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no additional coverage needed.

  • Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
  • Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
  • Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
Get a Quote — Faye Travel Insurance

Affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Coverage terms vary by state and plan. Review policy details before purchase.

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Crete Country Christmas 5k Grinch Run 2026 — Crete, IL?

Crete Country Christmas 5k Grinch Run 2026 — Crete, IL takes place on December 5, 2026. The race is held in Crete, Illinois.

Where is Crete Country Christmas 5k Grinch Run 2026 — Crete, IL held?

Crete Country Christmas 5k Grinch Run 2026 — Crete, IL is held at Division and Wood Street in Crete, Illinois.

Where can I find hotels near Crete Country Christmas 5k Grinch Run 2026 — Crete, IL?

RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Crete. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.