2026 Winterfest Hot Cocoa Run
The 2026 Winterfest Hot Cocoa Run is scheduled for Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Stewart Lodge within Mendon Ponds Park in Honeoye Falls, New York. As part of the Monroe County Winterfest Festival, this event offers participants a choice between a 5K Road Race on paved park roads and a 5K-ish Trail Race on natural-surface terrain, which may include snow, ice, mud, and roots typical of upstate New York winters. The experience concludes with a post-race hot cocoa bar and access to the broader winter festivities in the park.
Event Format and Trail Conditions
Is this a trail run?
The event offers two distinct 5K experiences:
- →5K Road Race: Run on paved roads within Mendon Ponds Park (not a trail race)
- →5K-ish Trail Race: Run on natural-surface trails through the park's wooded and winter terrain (a true trail run)
Weather and Terrain
What are the expected conditions for the trail race?
- →The trail race will likely feature snow, mud, roots, and variable winter conditions
- →Expect natural-surface terrain typical of upstate New York in January
- →The "5K-ish" designation implies slight distance variance due to trail conditions
Race Start Times
What are the start times for each race?
- →5K Road Race: 10:00 AM EST
- →5K-ish Trail Race: 10:00 AM EST
- →Kids Half-Mile Fun Run: 10:50 AM EST
Registration Pricing
How much does registration cost?
- →5K Road Race: $30.68 (includes fees)
- →5K-ish Trail Race: $30.68 (includes fees)
- →Kids Half-Mile Fun Run: $16.90 (includes fees)
Age Requirements
What are the age requirements for the Kids Half-Mile Fun Run?
- →Ages 4–12 are eligible to participate in the Kids Half-Mile Fun Run
Registration Inclusions
What is included with registration?
- →Post-Race Hot Cocoa Bar access
- →Custom Insulated Tumbler for the first 200 registrants (all adult races combined)
- →Access to the full Monroe County Winterfest activities
- →Race shirt (implied by standard practice; confirm at pickup)
Equipment Recommendations
What footwear is recommended?
- →Trail shoes are recommended for the trail option
- →Road shoes are fine for the road race
Merchandise Availability
Is the custom tumbler available for kids racers?
- →Kids racers can purchase a tumbler during registration while supplies last
- →Only the first 200 adult registrants receive a complimentary tumbler
Registration Deadline
When is the registration deadline?
- →Registration closes on January 16, 2026 at 5:45 PM EST
Event Schedule
What happens after the races?
- →Post-Race: Participants can stay and enjoy Winterfest activities
- →No need to rush off after finishing the run
Event Location
Where is the event located?
- →Stewart Lodge, Mendon Ponds Park, 95 Douglas Rd, Honeoye Falls, NY 14472
Event Significance
What is the event part of?
- →Part of the Monroe County Winterfest Festival
- →Supports Monroe County parks and community programming
- →Set in a 2,500-acre nature preserve