For 21 years on a certain Sunday morning in December, downtown Austin has woken to the sound of hundreds of jingling bells moving through the streets spreading holiday cheer and joy. This year will be a little different. On Sunday, December 16th downtown Austin will be filled with the sound of thousands and thousands of jingling bells making their way from Auditorium Shores, up to the Capitol and back through the heart of downtown.
Over the past 3 years, MADD’s Jingle Bell 5K and Kids’ K has increased its participation by 300%, making it one of the most popular 5K races in the area. But it’s not just the route that makes this event so much fun, it’s the festivities before and after that makes it the premiere holiday race to participate in. Registrants enjoy a long-sleeved t-shirt, chip-timing, bells for your shoes, photographs with Santa, kids’ games, holiday tunes, live music by Beatles cover band Day Tripper, refreshments from a myriad of local eateries, and a wellness fair featuring massages and other health-related information. Special guests include Miss Austin Allison Seale, Paul Carrozza, Sheriff Greg Hamilton, the H-E-B Buddy and more! Don’t forget the costume contests for both people and pets. After you are done having fun and pampering yourself, treat your furry friend to our pet area and receive a pet-icure.
Proceeds from the Jingle Bell 5K support Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and their mission to stop drunk driving, support the victims of this violent crime and prevent underage drinking. MADD provides free educational opportunities to anyone wanting to learn more about intoxicated driving and underage drinking while helping those personally affected by drunk driving tragedies. Though MADD’s mission is serious, the Jingle Bell 5K offers you a fun and exciting way to celebrate hope, progress, and a safer community with your loved ones.
For more information visit http://www.runtex.com/web/2-1646.asp or email Jacquelyn.collett@madd.org for more information. Early registration fees are $22 for the 5K and $10 for Kids’ K. Late registration fees are $26 for the 5K and $12 for the Kids’ K. Teams of 10 or more participants are eligible for a discounted rate of $18 / participant.
Oh what fun it is to run! We hope to see you at the Jingle Bell 5K and Kids’ K on Sunday, December 16th.
