Before the floats roll on parade day, thousands of runners get to run the route themselves. The Holly Jolly Fun Run is a festive 5K along the Original Santa Claus Parade route, run just before the parade with more than half a million spectators lining the streets.
Holly Jolly Fun Run 2026 at a glance
| Detail | 2026 |
|---|---|
| Date | Sunday, November 22, 2026 |
| Start | Just before the Santa Claus Parade (which starts at 12:30 p.m.) |
| Distance | 5K on the parade route |
| Finish | Wellington Street, just east of Yonge Street |
| Price | About $72 |
| Included | Custom winter hat and finisher medal |
| Field | Capped at 2,500 runners; sold out last year |
| Time limit | 1.5 hours |
Rules
- Minimum age: 8. Runners under 10 must run with an adult.
- Strollers are allowed but must start at the back and follow the Stroller Captain.
- No roller blades or pets.
- Transfers are possible through Race Roster before November 10; entry fees are non-refundable.
- Kit pick-up details are emailed the Thursday before the race.
Why do it
It’s the only time you can run Toronto’s downtown streets with crowds cheering before the parade arrives. Festive costumes are encouraged; dress for the season.
The course
The run follows the downtown part of the parade route just ahead of the floats, finishing on Wellington Street east of Yonge. It’s mostly flat city streets, and you’ll pass the busiest viewing stretches while the crowds are already in place. Check the race website for the exact 2026 start line and corral times, as they’re confirmed closer to race day.
Costume ideas
Half the fun is the outfit. Popular choices include:
- Santa suits and elf hats (the classic).
- Reindeer antlers with a red nose.
- Ugly Christmas sweaters layered over running gear.
- Group themes: a team of gingerbread people, Santa and his reindeer, or a family of snowmen.
Keep it practical: nothing that trips you up, blocks your vision or overheats you after the first kilometre.
Race-day timeline
| Time | What to do |
|---|---|
| Thursday before | Watch for kit pick-up details by email |
| Race morning | Take the subway downtown early; road closures start before the parade |
| About an hour before start | Arrive at the start area and use the washrooms |
| Start | Run the 5K with the crowds cheering |
| After the finish | Grab your medal, then find a spot to watch the parade. Best viewing spots |
Getting there
Driving downtown on parade day is not recommended because of road closures. Take the TTC and get off a few stops from the start so you can warm up on the walk. See parking for Toronto Christmas events if you must drive.
Holly Jolly Fun Run: FAQ
Can kids run? Yes, from age 8. Runners under 10 must run with an adult.
Can I walk it? Yes. Many people walk or jog; just finish within the time limit.
Is there a virtual option? Check the race’s registration page for 2026; options change from year to year.
Raising money for a good cause
The Santa Claus Parade is run by a non-profit, and registration fees help keep the parade free for the hundreds of thousands of families who watch it. Some runners also use the day to raise money or collect toys for local charities. Check the parade organisers’ site for any 2026 fundraising or toy-drive partners. More ways to give back
Tips
- Register early. It sold out last year.
- Dress in layers you can shed; late-November mornings are often near freezing.
- Plan your post-run spot for watching the parade. See the best viewing spots.
- Check transit: roads along the route close on parade morning. See route and road closures.
More parade-day planning: Toronto Santa Claus Parade 2026 · Toronto Christmas events in November
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