Santa Hustle Offers Competitive and Family-Friendly Races, Holiday Fun and Help for a Local Nonprofit on Sunday, Dec. 15, in Downtown Roseville
As many as 3,000 people – some wearing holiday outfits – will participate in half-marathon and 5K races and Kids Dash
ROSEVILLE, Calif. – Almost 3,000 runners and walkers – many wearing holiday outfits – are expected for the sixth annual Santa Hustle starting 7:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 15, at Vernon Street Town Square in downtown Roseville.
The family-friendly Santa Hustle includes a 5K race, a half-marathon and a Kids Dash with proceeds benefiting Stand Up Placer, a nonprofit helping in the fight against domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking in the region.
Whether participants are competing for a top finish or personal best in the half-marathon or 5K, or just a healthy walk or jog with family and friends, the Santa Hustle is about embracing the holiday season.
“The Santa Hustle is a wonderful way to stay active, celebrate the season and give back to a deserving nonprofit organization doing very important work,” said Randi Schooley of the Santa Hustle Series. “Everyone – including runners, walkers and parents with strollers – are welcome to join in the fun and create new holiday traditions.”
Roseville is among the three largest races in the 10-city Santa Hustle Race Series, rivaling Chicago and Galveston, Texas. Participation in Roseville has increased about 50% since 2022. The Santa Hustle attracts serious racers wearing $250 shoes to casual runners and even walkers pushing strollers living within four hours of Roseville.
The Santa Hustle half-marathon – a 13.1-mile course through part of Roseville – brings several hundred racers to Placer Valley, generating some much-appreciated business for local hotels and restaurants during what is often a slower period for tourism.
“It’s a family-friendly event that has become a community tradition and benefits businesses and a local organization,” said Kim Summers, CEO of Placer Valley Tourism and @the Grounds, home of the Roebbelen Center. Placer Valley Tourism is a sponsor of the Santa Hustle. “It’s a great way to get into the holidays.”
Holiday music, cookies and candy stations are available for racers at the finish line, along with photo opportunities on the courses. Racers are encouraged to share holiday cheer, with some even wearing Santa suits or Grinch outfits.
The Kids Dash – a fun-filled race through downtown Roseville – kicks-off the Santa Hustle at 7:30 a.m., followed by the half-marathon at 8 a.m. and the 5K race at 8:15 a.m.
Online registration is $34 for the Kids Dash, $87 for the 5K and $135 for the half-marathon (fees may change). A discount is available for multiple runners. Adult participants will receive a long-sleeved “ugly sweater” shirt, a Santa Hustle embroidered beanie and a merry finisher’s medal.
But the best gift is helping Stand Up Placer, an organization that helps about 4,000 Placer County residents every year – four times more than before 2020, said Gary McDonald, Executive Director and CEO of Stand Up Placer.
“The Santa Hustle is a nationwide event with competitive and noncompetitive races for all ages,” McDonald said. “Help survivors enjoy Christmas and show you care.”
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