The run takes place at Conyngham Hall, Knaresborough, HG5 9AY on Sunday 30th November 2025. 

9.30 am – registration opens
10.00 am – choir & festive fun
10.30 am – fancy dress competition, including best dressed dog!
11.00 am – run starts

Registration opens from 9.30am, please arrive no later than 10.30 to allow time to get registered and down to the start line. There will be lots of entertainment while we get everyone registered, so please come early to join in the fun!

Timings:

9.30 am – registration opens
10.00 am – choir & festive fun 
10.30 am – fancy dress competition, including best dressed dog!
11.00 am – run starts

This is 5k route which is the same as the Conyngham Hall parkrun. Please see more details here: Conyngham Hall parkrun

Thank you to the fabulous parkrun team for their support with setting out the route.

The route consists of two loops, so if you’d prefer a shorter distance, you’re welcome to complete just one loop instead of the full 5K. Whether you do one loop or both, everyone will receive the same medal, goody bag, and festive cheer! 

While the route isn’t ideal for buggies, it’s doable for those who are comfortable with mixed terrain. The course is roughly half tarmac and half trail, with some narrow and uneven sections. Last year we had a few buggy runners – if you’re happy with a bumpy ride and start towards the back, you’re very welcome to take part. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what works best for you and your little one.

Pay and display parking is available at the venue (Conyngham Hall). Last year the car park did fill up, so please car share where possible and allow plenty of time. 

Yes! We encourage the use of public transport where possible. Conyngham Hall is just a short walk from Knaresborough train station and the local bus stop at High Bridge, Knaresborough. Please note that the event is on a Sunday so services may be more limited than on a weekday.

Festival fancy dress is encouraged! Think elf ears, reindeer antlers, Santa hats, tinsel garlands! The ground is uneven in parts and a mix of trail and tarmac. Sturdy running shoes or trainers are essential. 

Yes – but for insurance reasons, dogs must be kept on a short lead. Don’t forget fancy dress for your pooch!

Yes! This is a family friendly event. Children can enter but must be accompanied by an adult.

No, this is a fun run so there will be no running times recorded. However, many keen runners will track their time themselves using Strava or other running apps.

No! You can walk, jog or run. There is no time limit!

All tickets are available via Eventbrite.

Yes! We offer a team of 8 runners and a family of 4 runners, both at discounted rates.

All tickets are available via Eventbrite

Yes! There is an ‘Eager Elf’ discount of 20% that is automatically applied to tickets purchased before 1st October. This discount is automatically applied when you purchase your tickets on Eventbrite

Absolutely! Please create your special Mental Elf Just Giving page here.

Proceeds from this event will go to Mind in Harrogate District (registered charity no. 1151271) to help us fund our children and young people’s mental health service.

Your entry fee includes a place in the run, your runner number, a medal (which doubles as a Christmas decoration) and a goody bag!

Absolutely. Thank you. Please click here to make a donation to our Mental Elf Campaign on Just Giving.