Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge brings back its festive 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run for the first time since 2019
BATON ROUGE, LA – Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge announces the return of the Reindeer Run, a holiday 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run, on Saturday, December 5, 2026, in downtown Baton Rouge. The 1 Mile Fun Run begins at 5:45 p.m., followed by the 5K at 6:15 p.m. The start and finish line is at 107 3rd St. The run takes place during Downtown Baton Rouge's Festival of Lights.
The Reindeer Run is open to runners, walkers, families, and friends of all ages and abilities. Participants are encouraged to dress festively, and every registration includes a set of jingle bells for their shoes. All proceeds benefit the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge and its work to promote cultural growth, economic development, and educational enhancement through the arts in and around the 10-parish region it serves.
“The Arts Council is thrilled to bring back the Reindeer Run after 7 years,” says President & CEO Jonathan Grimes. “This program is another example of how diverse program offerings enhance our quality of life.”
Registration includes:
Race bib
Jingle bells for your shoes
Pre- and post-race snacks provided by Bally's
Sports drinks and water provided by Coca-Cola
One free beer ticket
Registration is $25 for the Fun Run and $35 for the 5K when participants register online in advance. Race-day registration is $40. Teams of 10 or more and Arts Council members receive 15% off (discounts cannot be combined). The 5K will recognize the top overall male and female finishers, plus first-, second-, and third-place male and female finishers in each age group.
Packet pickup will take place at the Cary Saurage Community Arts Center, 233 St. Ferdinand St., on December 4th from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm. After the race, participants are invited to continue the celebration at downtown Baton Rouge restaurants and bars.
To register, volunteer, or learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit www.artsbr.org/festival-of-lights
This race is sponsored by Bear Process Safety, Campus Federal, Essential Credit Union, REV Fiber, Coca-Cola, and Bally’s Casino.