The Christmas Jumper Jaunt 2026

The Christmas Jumper Jaunt is a December midweek running and walking event along the River Thames, where participants are encouraged to wear their loudest Christmas jumper. It uses a seven-hour time-challenge format, allowing participants to choose their own distance rather than race a fixed one. The shortest official finish is 3km, with a medal awarded to all who reach this mark. A full lap is typically 4.37 miles (7km), though the loop may change to 3.28 miles depending on course conditions. The event aims to keep midweek running affordable, with the listed entry price available to members, who also receive guaranteed entry and a mini-me medal pin at each event they attend. The signed course follows well-made paths and tarmac beside the Thames, with only a very short grass section, meaning road shoes are suitable year-round. There are 3k and 5k turn points within the lap, which also assist younger runners in adhering to UK Athletics distance rules. Participants can stop after a short outing or continue adding laps: three laps constitute a half marathon, six laps a marathon, and seven or more count as an ultra, with a 50km option also available. Walkers are welcome alongside runners, and the flexible start window allows participants to use the event for various purposes, from a relaxed festive outing to a long-distance target. Finishers who complete a half-marathon distance or more can add a distance pin to their medal.