Illustration of Santa in a red suit sitting in an armchair as a small child shows him a paper list beside a lit fireplace (Christmas Star Run and Tree Lighting)
Christmas Lights

Christmas Star Run and Tree Lighting

Participants gather on campus for a 5K race and 1-mile fun run along a flat personal-best course. The evening celebration also features the annual lighting of the Christmas tree, surrounded by holiday lights and music. Visitors can grab a bite from food trucks, view the Coca-Cola holiday truck, and take photos with Santa Claus.

Sat, Dec 5, 2026 All ages

Plan Your Visit

Tickets

Before Nov 3: $35/5K; before Nov 3: $25/Fun Run; Nov. 4–Dec. 5: $45/5K; Nov. 4–Dec. 5: $35/Fun Run; under 5 years old: free; family maximum: $140.

Hours

5:00 pm - Race Start; 6:00 pm - Tree Lighting.

Food & Drink

Food trucks will be available.

Location

Christian City Campus · 7345 Red Oak Road, Union City, GA 30291 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 (5/5)

Best For

Families and holiday runners

Vibe

Festive and spirited

Energy Level

Moderate

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Register before November 3 to get the lower early rate on both the 5K and the 1-mile fun run.
  • Families signing up several runners should know registration has a family maximum, so the total cost for a household is capped.
  • Stay after your race, because the tree lighting follows about an hour after the start, with food trucks, music and the Coca-Cola holiday truck.
  • Bring a camera for photos with Santa Claus, which are part of the tree lighting celebration after the race.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Early registration rate for both the 5K and the fun run before Nov 3
  • Family maximum caps the total registration cost for a household
  • Kids under 5 run free

Links & Contact

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

What race options are there?

You can run a 5K or a 1-mile fun run. Both go through the Christian City campus, and kids under 5 take part free.

Is the 5K a good course for a fast time?

Yes. It's a flat course billed as a personal-best course. It's also a Peachtree Road Race qualifier, with awards for several age groups.

What do runners get?

Every registrant gets a t-shirt and a participation medallion.

What happens after the race?

The annual tree lighting follows the race. There are food trucks, music, holiday lights, the Coca-Cola holiday truck and photos with Santa Claus.

Who does the event support?

Proceeds go to Christian City's five Children & Family Programs. You can also sponsor the event or donate a Christmas gift.

Browse Christmas in Union City

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.

Contributors & Updates

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