Santa's Hot Chocolate Run costs $30.00 to $40.00 to enter. The 5K running race takes place on December 5, 2026, in Lake Charles, Louisiana, at 809 Kirby St., with a typical start time of 8:00 AM.
From the Race Organizer
Join us for a festive 3.1-mile adventure through the stunning downtown Lake Charles! Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking to enjoy a fun morning walk, this race is perfect for everyone. Picture yourself running past beautiful sights, feeling the holiday spirit in the air, and celebrating with fellow participants! 🎅 Festive Fun: Embrace the holiday spirit with your favorite holiday gear—wear your ugliest sweater, Santa hat, or reindeer antlers! ☕ Delicious Hot Chocolate: Treat yourself to a warm cup of hot chocolate after crossing the finish line—because you deserve it! 🏅 Historic Race Route: Enjoy a professionally measured course that offers the perfect blend of challenge and enjoyment. We are excited to mark the return of Santa's Hot Chocolate Run to our favorite route beginning at the Central School Arts & Humanities Center. The race route starts at the corner of Pujo St. and Kirkman St. and takes runners on a 3.1 mile route via Lakeshore Drive, Watkins St., 7th St. (past St. Louis High School), and Bank St. - ending at Pujo St. and Reid St. 📸 Festive Photo & Water Stations: We’re turning up the excitement with water and photo stations at four points along the route! Strike a pose and snap a selfie at our festive photo spots—it’s all about having fun and making memories! 🎄✨We encourage teams to register for Santa's Hot Chocolate Run. Wear your custom, company, or club shirt to show your support for literacy and lifelong learning! Team recognition includes the team with the most participants, fastest time, best Candy Land themed outfits, and most spirit. 🎠🎨 Kid Zone fun: One of the most popular elements of the event is our Kids Zone. It includes a variety of fun activities for kids of all ages beginning at 8:00AM. 🕵️♂️✨Scavenger hunt: Be curious! Participate in the free scavenger hunt around the four corners of the Central School. Take a leisurely walk around this great oak tree lined space - four times around equals one mile. 👟 Join the Community: Be part of a vibrant community event that brings everyone together for a morning of fitness and fun while supporting the Literacy Council of Southwest Louisiana.
Course & Travel Notes
In December, Lake Charles typically sees average highs of 65°F and lows of 45°F, with measurable precipitation on 31% of days. Santa's Hot Chocolate Run takes place at an elevation of 30 feet, with an 8:00 AM start time occurring after the 6:55 AM sunrise. Lake Charles Regional Airport is located 7 miles from the venue.
⛰️ 30 ft elevation☀️ Typically 65°F / 45°F · 31% chance of rain✈️ Lake Charles Regional Airport (LCH) — 7 mi
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Lake Charles, LA. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
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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 Lake Charles, LA.
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
When is Santa’s Hot Chocolate Run 2026 — Lake Charles, LA?
Santa’s Hot Chocolate Run 2026 — Lake Charles, LA takes place on December 5, 2026. The race is held in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
Where is Santa’s Hot Chocolate Run 2026 — Lake Charles, LA held?
Santa’s Hot Chocolate Run 2026 — Lake Charles, LA is held at 809 Kirby St. in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
Where can I find hotels near Santa’s Hot Chocolate Run 2026 — Lake Charles, LA?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Lake Charles. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
