Christmas Classic 5k
Participants can race or take a scenic hike around Double Oak Lake, kicking off with an Alabama Wildlife Center predator flyover. Runners and walkers have the choice between a traditional finish line or an icy Polar Plunge jump. The event also features a post-race brunch, encounters with local birds and critters, and awards for the best tacky sweaters.
See more other Christmas activities near Pelham
Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Tickets
Christmas Classic 5k registration: $45; 12 & under registration: $20. A $5 Oak Mountain State Park admission gate fee is required for all participants and attendees. The Polar Plunge is optional and requires a $20 donation.
Hours
9:00AM CST–11:00AM CST.
Ages
All ages
Food & Drink
A post-race brunch is offered.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Register early, because this race sells out and only the first 200 people to sign up get the custom Christmas Classic 5k swag.
- If you plan to take the Polar Plunge, make your donation on the donations page beforehand, and pack dry clothes for after the icy jump.
- Everyone who comes to watch or run pays the Oak Mountain State Park gate fee, so budget for it for each person in your group.
- Dig out your tackiest Christmas sweater, because "Major awards" go to the best one at the race.
- Stick around after you finish for the post-race brunch and a chance to meet the Alabama Wildlife Center's birds and critters.
Special Events & Promotions
- Polar Plunge finish line into icy waters, with a separate donation to the Alabama Wildlife Center.
- Candy Cane Challenge kids event, registered separately.
- Custom Christmas Classic 5k swag for the first 200 to register.
- "Major awards" for the best tackiest sweater.
Links & Contact
Run by Finish Line Events
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can kids take part?
Yes, children are encouraged to join. There's a 12 & under registration, plus a separate Candy Cane Challenge kids event.
Do I have to race, or can I walk?
Either works. Some people race for a personal best, and others hike the course around Double Oak Lake with their family.
How does the Polar Plunge finish work?
There are two finish lines. To finish with an icy plunge, make the donation on the donations page, which goes to the Alabama Wildlife Center. If you'd rather stay dry, use the regular finish line.
What do 5k participants get?
An Alabama Wildlife Center predator flyover to start the race, a chance to meet the center's birds and other local critters, and a post-race brunch. The first 200 to register also get custom swag.
Is there a costume or sweater contest?
Yes, "Major awards" go to the best tackiest sweater.
Browse Christmas in Pelham
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.