2025 Holiday Five
The 2025 Holiday Five takes place December 27–31 at the Cady Way Trail Head in Winter Park, Florida. Winter Park in late December typically experiences mild temperatures ranging from 55–75°F (13–24°C) with low humidity and minimal rainfall, creating ideal conditions for outdoor running. Participants can expect a low-key, bare-bones running experience across five consecutive days, with multiple distance options available daily and a focus on accessible, community-oriented racing rather than elaborate production elements.
What distances are offered at the 2025 Holiday Five?
- →50K ultramarathon
- →Marathon (26.2 miles)
- →Half Marathon (13.1 miles)
- →10K (6.2 miles)
- →5K (3.1 miles)
What are the start times for each distance?
- →50K: 6:00 AM
- →Marathon: 6:00 AM
- →Half Marathon: 6:10 AM
- →10K: 7:00 AM
- →5K: 7:00 AM
How much time do I have to complete the race?
All distances have a time limit of approximately 9.5 hours from the official start time of their respective category.
What is the course layout?
The course is a flat, paved urban trail with partial shade located along Cady Way Trail Head. The route includes street crossings for which runners are responsible for their own safety.
- →50K, Marathon, and Half Marathon: 2.2-mile double out-and-back loops (14 loops plus 2 baby loops for 50K; 12 loops for Marathon; 6 loops for Half Marathon)
- →5K and 10K: 1.55-mile loops (2 loops for 5K; 4 loops for 10K)
What support is available during the race?
An aid station is located at the pavilion near the start/finish area and is passed twice per lap. The aid station provides water, Gatorade, sodas, and snacks including pickles and olives.
What should I bring for hydration?
This is a cupless event. Participants must bring their own hydration device such as a handheld bottle, hydration pack, or water bottle to carry throughout the race.
What are the registration fees?
- →50K: $75–$350
- →Marathon: $65–$300
- →Half Marathon: $55–$250
- →10K: $40–$175
- →5K: $30–$125
What is included in my registration?
Registration includes a simple finisher's medal for completing the race. Participants receive low entry fees, generous time limits, friendly support, and convenient parking. The event does not include age group awards, themed t-shirts, finisher's bling, food parties, or cheering spectators.
How is the race timed?
Timing is hand-timed. Runners must ring the bell at the finish line to officially complete their race.
What should I prepare for the early start times?
The earliest start times begin at 6:00 AM, meaning runners will need lighting for the first approximately 30 minutes of their race. Bring a headlamp, flashlight, or other personal lighting device to safely navigate the course during darkness.
What is the philosophy behind this event?
The 2025 Holiday Five emphasizes a low-key, casual approach to racing. The focus is on accessibility through low entry fees and generous time limits rather than elaborate production elements. The event prioritizes friendly support and a community atmosphere over large crowds, extensive amenities, or competitive awards.