About the Christmas
Light Run
Our History
Started in 2002, CLR is an annual tradition to view the holiday decorations downtown and on the Ellipse. Originally organized as a friendly excuse to run and get into the holiday spirit, the CLR continues to grow in numbers each year to become an annual tradition.
Is this a race, what do you do during a CLR?
Absolutely not a race. This is an event in which everyone walks or runs, enjoys the lights and sings. Most people will wear some type of holiday gear such as Santa hats, elf hats, antlers, or blinking lights. Also, others have been decked out as Santa Claus or Elves. Use your imagination and show your holiday spirit! For a few bucks you get a Santa hat at any local CVS store.
Is it True CLR is Free?
Yes, when we started this event in 2002, we decided this is our gift to all the runners out there. However, we highly encourage you to purchase CLR gloves as the proceeds go towards supporting CLR!
What Do I Get for Participating?
You mean other than a great time?! Jingle bells will be handed out prior to the run to tie to your shoes and you'll get a handy pocket-size song list and course maps. You keep the bells and song list as a gift from us so you can keep singing through the holidays!
Where Do We Run?
We typically run from Union Station, past the Capitol, through the mall, to the Ellipse, through the downtown shopping areas, back to Union Station. Click Course Map for more info.
What are the three different pace groups?
Blitzens - geared towards walkers, this is a shorter course that walks ~15 minutes/mile.
Comets - the biggest group, this pace is typically between 10-12 minutes/mile and is geared towards singing, laughing, and having a great time.
Dashers - this is the group that likes the challenge of running fast while still trying to sing. This pace is typically around an 8-9 minute/mile pace.
Further questions?
Contact
Jerry Ricciardi
Kevin Gormley