The Mount Hood Nutcracker Challenge 2026 — Melrose, MA

Date
December 12, 2026
Location
Melrose, MA
Venue
100 Slayton Rd.
Start Time
12:00 PM
Entry Fee
$25.00 – $40.00
Events
3.5 Mile XC Run, 2 Mile Walk
Register NowRegistration Open
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 su

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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
  • Emergency medical up to $250,000
  • Cancel For Any Reason add-on available
  • 24/7 real-time support
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Frequently Asked Questions

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.