SANTA RUN WEATHER POLICY

What happens in the event of inclement weather? The race goes on! This is North Dakota after all and we don't let a little stormy weather dampen our holiday spirit!

But even though we run outside in Santa suits in December, we are not completely crazy! We have our limits! For three of the past four years, temperatures for the Santa Run have ranged from 20 to 40 degrees above zero. However, in 2016 the temperature was a frigid 15 degrees below!!! The extreme cold weather forced us to cancel the competitive run as we just couldn't risk the health and safety of our runners and walkers and our volunteers. While we certainly hope the weather this year will be seasonal (the average high temperature in Bismarck for December 8 is 28 degrees), we decided to publish a weather policy so that you will have an idea of how the race will proceed in the event of inclement weather.

If the outside air temperature and/or wind chill reaches a minus 10 degrees or colder at race time, the competitive, or timed, portion of the event will be cancelled. We also reserve the right to cancel the competitive, or timed, portion of the event even if the temperature is above minus 10 degrees, if other existing weather conditions would make it unsafe for our race participants and volunteers. If the competitive, or timed, event is cancelled, weather permitting we would still do a fun run around the Capitol Mall loop for those brave souls who want to venture outside. For the rest of you, a guided indoor walking tour through the Heritage Center will be held. This, of course, would be followed by the same wonderful treats and hot drinks that have become a tradition at the Santa Run.

The event will not be cancelled unless the Heritage Center is closed due to weather conditions. In that event, the run would likely be rescheduled for sometime in early spring with a definite date to be determined. No refunds will be given for inclement weather conditions or a weather related cancellation.