The Reindeer Run 2026: A Family-Friendly 5K and Fun Run in Maryville on December 6 (Costume Prizes Included)
The Reindeer Run is one of those Maryville events that works whether your kid is a serious little runner or just wants to wear antlers and waddle a mile. Save the date now and register before race day, because the fee climbs and packets are easier to sort out ahead of time.
It is set for Sunday, December 6 at the Greenbelt Amphitheater in Maryville. Day-of check-in runs from 12:45 to 1:30 in the afternoon, the 5K starts at 2:00, and the 1-mile fun run and walk goes off at 2:45. That means you can line up a stroller, walk the mile, and still be home well before supper.
The 1-mile fun run and walk is the sweet spot for families. Every participant gets a keepsake no matter how they finish, and it is short enough that even the youngest legs make it to the end. If you have an older kid who wants a real race, the 5K has age divisions starting at 8 and under, so they get their own bracket and a proper finish time.
The best part is the costumes. There are prizes for the best male and best female Christmas costume, and half the fun of the morning is watching everyone run in tinsel and reindeer noses. Kids lean into it hard. It is one of the more cheerful community events on the December calendar.
A few practical notes. Registration is online through runsignup.com or in person at the Parks and Rec office at 316 S. Everett High Road in Maryville, and you can call 865-983-9244 with questions. Packet pickup happens early, December 3 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Dick’s Sporting Goods in Hamilton Crossing in Alcoa, or you can grab it on race day. Early entry runs roughly $25 for young 5K runners and $32 for adults, with the 1-mile around $20, and it ticks up a bit on race day, so signing up early is worth it. A portion of the entry fees goes to the Empty Pantry Fund, which is a nice reason to feel good about the whole morning.
Dress warm, bring the antlers, and I will see you at the Greenbelt.