Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K (Dayton)
Dayton's Christmas in July offers a unique summer celebration of the holidays with a fast, flat course.
Race Date
Jul 12, 2026
Location
Dayton, OH
Quick facts
- Date
- Sunday, July 12, 2026
- Location
- Dayton, Ohio
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi) + 13.1 Miles, 5K
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
- Finishers on record
- 233
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Experience a Yuletide twist at Dayton's Christmas in July Half Marathon, a race that brings festive cheer to the summer heat. Held at Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway, this event offers a unique opportunity to embrace the holiday spirit mid-year.
The course is a fast, flat loop, designed for speed and personal bests. Runners can expect a smooth, paved surface conducive to quick times, with the ~0 ft elevation gain and loss contributing to its PR-friendly nature. The race kicks off early to make the most of cooler morning temperatures.
While the field size is modest, with recent editions seeing around ~219 finishers, the race draws participants from approximately 15 states, indicating a growing appeal. A dedicated ~15% of runners return each year, a testament to the event's charm. Post-race, participants can enjoy a Christmas party, complete with Hawaiian-themed swag to commemorate the unusual celebration.
Race-provided description
Ho Ho Ho, Oh What Fun it is to Run in the Sun (and Shade) and Earn Some Chillin' Hawaiian Summer Xmas Swag! Jingle Jolly Sunday July 12
6:00am - 6:45am Packet Pickup/Check-In Opens For Half Marathon, Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway
7:00am Half Marathon Starts
7:00am - 7:45am Packet Pickup Opens for the 5K.
8:00am 5K Starts
8:30am Post Race Christmas Party Begins!!!
Logistics
Race Day
Sunday, July 12, 2026
Start Time
7:00 AM
Giveaway
Men's or Ladies Ultra-Lightweight Tech Shirt
Start Location
Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway, Dayton, OH, 45414
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Urban
Surface
Paved
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Net Drop/km
0 m (Flat)
Separation
0.0%
Also Offers
Course Map
1 other map for this race
Quality Score
Solid Pick482 years running
~171 finishers a year
growing or steady
15% returning runners
5 timing sources
runners from 15 states
winner 1:29:47
typical high 84°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
67°
Afternoon (High)
84°
Hot conditions — adjust pace expectations, prioritize hydration
0.1"
Precipitation
9 mph
Wind
73%
Humidity
Historical Finish Times
How 233 finishers actually crossed the line across 2 years.
Most recent
2025
Total finishers
233
Median time
2:15:08
Latest turnout
110
States
19
Turnout by year
2024–2025
Hover the histogram to inspect specific finish times.
Race Photos
Frequently asked
When is the Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K (Dayton)?
The Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K (Dayton) is held on Sunday, July 12, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM.
Where does the Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K (Dayton) take place?
It takes place in Dayton, Ohio.
What distances does the Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K (Dayton) offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles), plus 13.1 Miles, 5K.
Is the Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K (Dayton) course flat and good for a PR?
The Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K (Dayton) is a ultra-flat, loop course course.
How many people run the Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K (Dayton)?
HalfRuns has finish records for 233 runners who have completed the Christmas in July Half Marathon and 5K (Dayton).
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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