2026 Santa Shuffle Edmonton: Fun Run & Elf Walk

The 2026 Santa Shuffle Edmonton: Fun Run & Elf Walk returns to Edmonton, Alberta on December 5th. This event combines a classic 5K run with the whimsy of an elf-themed 1K walk through a local park in the heart of the city.
Race morning finds participants gathering at Centennial Park, where festive decorations and volunteers set the scene for a morning full of fun. The atmosphere is electric as families and friends gather to support one another, creating a sense of community that extends beyond just the runners but includes all those who come out to cheer on the participants.
Since 2015, this event has grown significantly, supporting local communities through fundraising efforts led by volunteers and participants alike. Each year, hundreds of individuals register for both the run and walk, contributing not only physically but also financially towards The Salvation Army’s mission to provide essential services such as food, shelter, and compassionate support.
Course venues include Centennial Park and its surrounding streets, offering a firm yet slightly soft terrain that is perfect for running. Participants start at the park entrance on Whyte Avenue near 104 Street before heading through winding paths with occasional slight inclines. The route also features several notable landmarks such as the Edmonton Valley Zoo and Centennial Community Gardens.
Atop of the course, runners will find themselves starting and finishing back in Centennial Park, where an aid station offers water stations at key points along the way to keep participants hydrated. Elevation changes are minimal, ensuring a smooth run for all levels of fitness enthusiasts.
Weather conditions on race day feel like temperatures around -13°C with winds blowing at 10 miles per hour, creating a brisk yet manageable environment. Snowfall is expected but light, adding just enough winter charm without being too slippery or challenging to navigate. Humidity hovers between 78% and 85%, making the air moist and cool.
The race offers both a 5K for adults and a Kids K for younger runners.

- Individual – 5K Fun Run / 1K Elf Walk | Fee: CA$61.12
Registration is straightforward, with participants signing up through an easy-to-navigate online system at https://raceroster.com/events/2026/130349/2026-santa-shuffle-edmonton-fun-run-and-elf-walk. Early bird discounts are available for youth and seniors, while group registrations receive additional savings.
Bib pickup will be held the day before at the Salvation Army headquarters on 107 Street near Jasper Avenue from 3 PM to 8 PM. Participants should bring their photo ID with them along with any necessary donations or fundraising materials.
The starting point is located at the Centennial Park entrance, situated between Whyte Avenue and 104 Street in Edmonton’s central neighborhood. Age requirements are open to all runners aged 6 years and older; however, younger participants require adult supervision during both runs. First-timers should arrive prepared with warm clothing appropriate for cold weather conditions.
The 2026 Santa Shuffle Edmonton: Fun Run & Elf Walk is a celebration of community spirit and charitable giving. With every step taken on this 5K course, runners contribute to the vital work being done by The Salvation Army in local communities across Canada. This event is not just about completing a race but also about making a meaningful difference through fundraising efforts that support essential services for those facing hardship.