Saturnalia returns to Olympia, Washington on December 12th, marking the season finale for Rock Candy Running's annual trail races. This year’s event is set in Squaxin Park, a beloved local green space that winds through trails and offers stunning views of Puget Sound and downtown Olympia. Participants will gather at Reeves Middle School before heading out into the crisp December air. On race morning, runners can expect to see the first light filtering through the dense forest canopy as they make their way along Squaxin Park’s well-trodden paths. The trail conditions are firm but slightly soft underfoot, providing a challenging yet enjoyable run for participants of all levels. As the sun rises and temperatures drop, it's important to dress in layers suitable for cold weather running. Saturnalia has been an Olympia tradition since its inception by Mathias and Trixy Eichler from Rock Candy Running. Over the years, this event has grown into a community celebration that honors both ancient Roman customs and modern festive spirit. Participants not only enjoy scenic routes but also contribute to local charities through their registration fees. The race culminates in an awards ceremony where every finisher is celebrated with a medal and holiday treats at the aid station. The 10K route winds through Squaxin Park, offering runners a mix of flat terrain and slight inclines that highlight the park’s natural beauty. Runners start and finish at Reeves Middle School on Quince Street NE in Olympia's Eastside neighborhood. The course includes views of Puget Sound and the Capitol building above downtown Olympia. Weather conditions for December are expected to be cool with firm trail surfaces underfoot, making it a suitable environment for long-distance running enthusiasts looking for a challenging yet rewarding experience. Temperatures will range between 40-52°F (4-11°C) in the morning hours of race day, ensuring that participants should prepare for cold weather conditions.
10K 10K • Start: 09:00:00 • Fee: $40.00
Registration can be completed online at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=138694. The fee is $40 per runner and includes entry into the 10K distance. Early registration closes on December 5th, with a final deadline of December 7th for any late entries. Bib pickup will take place at Reeves Middle School from December 9-12 during regular school hours or one hour before race day start time if unable to pick up in advance. Runners should bring photo ID and confirmation email receipt as proof of registration. Participants must be present on the day of the event with their bib number attached for verification purposes. The starting line is located at Reeves Middle School, 2200 Quince Street NE, Olympia, WA. Age requirements vary but generally include anyone aged eight years or older who can safely complete a 10K distance. Saturnalia in Olympia on December 12th offers runners the chance to experience one of Washington’s most scenic and historically rich trail races while contributing to local charity efforts through participation fees. The event commemorates both ancient traditions and modern festive spirit, making it an essential part of any runner's winter calendar.
Races Offered
10K
Dec 12, 2026
straighten
Distance —
10K
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
09:00
sell
$40.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for December in Olympia.
thermostatTemperature
4.0° / 9.4°
wb_sunnyFeels like
0.7° / 6.6°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
3h 15m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
7.9 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
10.3 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Low
terrain
Course conditions
Firm and slightly soft
sunny
Max UV Index
Low (1.4)
humidity_mid
Humidity
91.3%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
08:50
nightlight
Sunset
17:24
About Olympia
Learn more about the host city, Olympia.
Olympia is the capital of Washington State, and the seat of Thurston County in the South Sound region. The small city of 56,000 (2020) has a diverse economic base, and is a breeding ground for alternative culture in the Pacific Northwest, having spawned or influenced many of the region's better-known personalities.