Santa Run Presented by Al Serra Auto Plaza 2026

The Santa Run Presented by Al Serra Auto Plaza is an annual YMCA fun run and walk in downtown Flint, serving Greater Flint and Genesee County. It offers a 5K run/walk, a 1-mile run/walk, and a quarter-mile Reindeer Run. Child entry is available for runners and walkers age 12 or younger in the 1-mile and 5K events. The races are untimed, focusing on participation over results. The route runs through downtown Flint and the city’s Cultural Center. Every participant receives a five-piece Santa suit to wear during the event, along with a finisher medal, creating the race's signature crowd-of-Santas appearance. The event raises money for the YMCA of Greater Flint scholarship assistance program, helping local youth and families participate in YMCA programs. Free family activities are offered before the race, and organizers coordinate volunteers, sponsors, and social media contests.