The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge takes place at 100 Slayton Rd. in Melrose, Massachusetts on December 12, 2026. The event offers running and walking options across two distances: a 2-mile course and a 5-mile course, allowing athletes to choose based on their goals and fitness level. The race starts at noon, giving participants a midday competition window. Entry fees range from $25 to $40 depending on registration timing or distance selection. This winter event provides endurance athletes and casual runners a chance to stay active during the holiday season in the greater Boston area.
From the Race Organizer
We are looking forward to this year's 20th edition of the race - MHNC XX! We plan to have some special features associated with the event. As part of this, if anyone has some interesting displays of nutcrackers over the years which you don't mind sharing (by name or anonymously), please email photos to mhnc@melroserunningclub.com . The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge is excited to welcome runners and walkers again for this year's 20th round over the hilly Mount Hood Golf Club . This race is a unique 3.5-mile cross-country race in the Greater Boston area in that the course changes every year. Runners look forward to a vigorous team competition or competing individually, a challenging course, and vying for the coveted nutcrackers! Others arrive festively dressed for this December race, and come for the experience and challenge of XC running. There is also a non-competitive 2-mile walk for those who want an easier option while still enjoying the festive nature of the event, and to help support the race beneficiaries. Race Start Time 12:00 pm for both the 3.5-mile XC race and 2-mile walk. Starting line this year is 0.2 miles from the Melrose Fish & Game Club (see below). Venue The host venue is the Melrose Fish & Game Club . For those unfamiliar with this location, directions are the same as for the Mount Hood clubhouse except that you take the road to the left of the clubhouse (Stillman Rd.) and travel 1/3 mile further. The majority of race parking is closer to the clubhouse, so be prepared for a warm-up walk or jog to reach the venue. Race limit 250 entrants XC Team registration procedure => See Teams Info page Awards Top 3 M+F overall Top 3 M+F in age divisions (19-under, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-over) Top 3 teams in each division The walk is a non-competitive event. Amenities Nutcracker figurines to awards winners Melrose Fish & Game Club’s famous post-race pasta lunch Cash bar Beneficiaries Housing Families, Inc. and the Melrose HS XC teams. Strollers No strollers allowed Race day registration hours 10:00 – 11:30 am at the Melrose Fish & Game Club Bib pick-up location & hours Fri. 12/11/26: 3 - 7 pm at Marathon Sports, 401 Main St., Melrose Race day: 10:00 - 11:45 am, Melrose Fish & Game Club
Hotels Near This Race
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The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge 2026 — Melrose, MA
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Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for December 12.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Melrose, MA.
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 The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge 2026 — Melrose, MA?
The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge 2026 — Melrose, MA takes place on December 12, 2026. The race is held in Melrose, Massachusetts.
Where is The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge 2026 — Melrose, MA held?
The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge 2026 — Melrose, MA is held at 100 Slayton Rd. in Melrose, Massachusetts.
Where can I find hotels near The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge 2026 — Melrose, MA?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Melrose. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
