Elves for the Shelves 5K, Fun Run, and Walk
Participants head out along Wayne neighborhood streets for a timed 5K run, a 2.3-mile walk, or a half-mile fun run. Runners and walkers of all ages are encouraged to dress in festive holiday costumes, with prizes awarded for creative outfits. The morning concludes with an awards ceremony and medals presented to young fun run finishers.
Sat, Dec 5, 2026 All ages
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Plan Your Visit
Tickets
5K Run: $30 Walk (2.3 Miles): $25. Fun Run (.5 Mile): $20. Virtual Runner or Walker: $25; registration ends December 5, 2026 at 11:59pm EST. Kids 12 & under receive a medal.
Parking
There is free parking on the street and in municipal lots, including lots behind the Library on S. Wayne Ave. and downtown on N. Wayne Ave. Parking is not available on W. Wayne Ave. because the road will be closed for the race.
Accessibility
The 2.3-mile walking course along neighborhood streets is stroller and wheelchair accessible.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Register by Nov 8 to guarantee a race t-shirt, because after that date shirts are given out only while supplies last.
- Sign up before race day, because registration prices for the 5K, walk and fun run all go up on the morning of the race.
- Pick up your packet on Friday in the Library's lower-level Winsor Room so you don't need the half-hour pickup window on race morning.
- Wear your most festive gear, since prizes are awarded for the most creative costumes for both adults and children.
- Don't try to park on W. Wayne Ave., which closes for the race; use free street parking or the municipal lots behind the Library instead.
Special Events & Promotions
- Register by Nov 8 for a guaranteed race t-shirt. After that, shirts are while supplies last.
- Family pricing on the 5K for groups of five or six registrants.
- Virtual Runner or Walker option for anyone who can't make it to Wayne.
- Registration prices for all races go up on race day.
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 website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which distance should I pick?
The 5K is timed, with age categories. The 2.3-mile walk follows neighborhood streets in Wayne, starting and finishing at the Library. The half-mile fun run is untimed and open to all ages, and registered fun runners 12 and under get a medal at the finish. There's also a virtual option.
Should I wear a costume?
Yes. Wear your most festive gear, because prizes go to the most creative costumes for both adults and children.
Where do I pick up my packet?
Pick it up the Friday before the race in the lower-level Winsor Room at the Library. You can also get everything on race morning before the start.
Will I get a t-shirt?
Shirts are guaranteed if you register by Nov 8. After that, they're available while supplies last.
Can we run as a team?
Yes. Form a family, workplace or community team and set a fundraising goal for the Library. The largest team wins the roving trophy.
Browse Christmas in Wayne
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.