Tharptown Christmas Displays Run Run Rudolph 5k

Tharptown Christmas Displays Run Run Rudolph 5k takes place in Coal Township, Pennsylvania, in Northumberland County, on November 21, 2026. Two options start together at 9:00 a.m.: a 5K run (3.1 miles) and a 5K walk over the same distance. The course is inspired by the movie ELF, with scenes along the way paying tribute to Buddy the Elf's adventure, which gives the whole event a playful, whimsical feel.

Participants are encouraged to show up in ELF-themed outfits, so this is more of a festive outing than a serious time trial, though the awards include cash prizes for the first finishers and medals by age group. Every participant also gets pizza afterward. If you plan to run it hard, a few weeks of easy running plus one session of short pickups each week is enough for a strong 5K; if you are walking, just make sure your shoes are comfortable for three miles. Either way, dress for the cold and keep the costume loose enough to move in.