Ugly Sweater 5K
- Date Sat 12th December 2026
- Time 8:00AM EST
- Location Columbia, South Carolina
- Price $6.30 - $27.50
- Races 2 races
- Distances 5km
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Event summary
Get ready to don your most outrageous holiday attire for the Ugly Sweater 5K on Saturday, December 12, 2026! This festive run takes place in the heart of Columbia, Richland, specifically at Gills Creek Memorial Park. Whether you prefer an ugly sweater, a quirky holiday costume, or even a festive outfit for your furry friend, this event promises fun for everyone. The race features a timed 5K course, perfect for both seasoned runners and casual walkers alike, all while supporting a noble cause. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Friends of the Met CAC, a non-profit dedicated to aiding children who are victims of abuse and neglect.
After the race, stick around for a lively holiday-themed awards celebration where prizes will be awarded not just to the top finishers but also to the participant showcasing the "ugliest" outfit. And don’t forget your pets—there's an award for the best-dressed furry companion too! Be sure to pick up your race packet on Friday, December 11, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Fleet Feet Forest Acres, or on race day from 7:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m
After the race, stick around for a lively holiday-themed awards celebration where prizes will be awarded not just to the top finishers but also to the participant showcasing the "ugliest" outfit. And don’t forget your pets—there's an award for the best-dressed furry companion too! Be sure to pick up your race packet on Friday, December 11, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Fleet Feet Forest Acres, or on race day from 7:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m
Organiser's Description
It's tiiiiiiime! We want to see your ugliest, weirdest, or fanciest holiday ensemble on Saturday, December 12th for the Friends of the Met CAC Ugly Sweater 5K in Forest Acres, SC! Proceeds and donations will benefit Friends of the Met CAC, a non-profit organization established to support the mission of the Metropolitan Childrens Advocacy Center (Met CAC). The Met CAC provides essential services to children who are suspected victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, and other types of maltreatment. Your support helps the Met CAC in their fight against child abuse.
The race will be officially timed by Charlestowne Road Race Services. Be sure to hang around after the race and enjoy a holiday themed awards celebration. Awards will be given to top finishers, as well as to the participant with the "ugliest" outfit.
Runners and walkers are invited to show off your pet's holiday outfit too. An award for best dressed pet will be given for furry friends too! Don't forget to register your best four-legged friend!
Packet Pick-up will be on Friday, December 11, 2026 between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. at Fleet Feet Forest Acres, 4525 Forest Drive, Columbia, SC 29206 or on race day between 7:00 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. near Gills Creek Memorial Park.
The race will be officially timed by Charlestowne Road Race Services. Be sure to hang around after the race and enjoy a holiday themed awards celebration. Awards will be given to top finishers, as well as to the participant with the "ugliest" outfit.
Runners and walkers are invited to show off your pet's holiday outfit too. An award for best dressed pet will be given for furry friends too! Don't forget to register your best four-legged friend!
Packet Pick-up will be on Friday, December 11, 2026 between 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. at Fleet Feet Forest Acres, 4525 Forest Drive, Columbia, SC 29206 or on race day between 7:00 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. near Gills Creek Memorial Park.
Races
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Ugly Sweater 5K
Incl. $2.50 Fee & T-Shirt
Sat 12th December 2026 (8:00AM EST)
$27.50
Awards are tentatively planned for 9:00 a.m. Divisions covered: 14 and under, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70 and up. Awards to the top finishers overall, as well as top finishers in each division. Prizes to the participant with the ugliest holiday ensemble and best dressed pet will also be given. **Shirts guaranteed for those registered on or before Monday, December 3, 2025. Packet Pickup will be at Fleet Feet Forest Acres on Friday, 12/12/2025 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. -
Best Dressed Pet
Incl. $1.30 Fee
Sat 12th December 2026 (8:00AM EST)
$6.30
Calling all four-legged friends! Bring out your best dressed pup for a chance to win a canine themed gift basket. Dogs must be registered to win!
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Gills Creek Memorial Park, 24 Forest Lake Place, Columbia, 29206, SC, United States
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Ugly Sweater 5K
