Utica Ugly Sweater 5K 2026

The Utica Ugly Sweater 5K is a December road race starting and finishing at Pizza Boy's in New York Mills, near Utica. Participants select Team Santa or Team Grinch, with virtual participation available for those joining remotely. The in-person race is limited to 300 participants, giving it the feel of a local holiday gathering rather than a large-city event. Runners receive a custom long-sleeve shirt and finisher medal. Walkers in the Yeti Walk also get a winter beanie and medal. The course is a simple 5K road route beginning and ending at Pizza Boy's. Packet pickup is available before race day and on race morning. The race supports the NY Mills High School PTSO. The post-race gathering is held near the start line, offering free food for runners and discounted beer. While competitive runners can vie for overall and age-group awards, the ugly sweater contest also attracts participants, offering prizes for Best Ugly Sweater, Most Creative, and Most Funny.