
Luke's Diner Dash is a running race on December 5, 2026 in Monticello, KY, with an entry fee of $25.
From the Organizer
Grab your coffee, throw on your flannel, and get ready to run through the holiday magic of Stars Hollow—well, Monticello!
Join us in Downtown Monticello for Luke’s Diner Dash 5K, a festive evening run inspired by the beloved world of Gilmore Girls. Before the race, come early and enjoy a Gilmore Girls-themed holiday market, packed with small-town charm, festive shopping, and plenty of opportunities to embrace your inner Lorelai or Rory.
Then, at 6:30 PM, it’s time to hit the streets for our 5K Run/Walk!
The Luke’s Diner Dash 5K will take runners and walkers through Downtown Monticello with Christmas lights and holiday decorations lighting the way. Whether you're chasing a personal best, enjoying a night out with friends, or just looking for a fun way to kick off the Christmas season, this race is all about festive fun, community, and a little bit of Stars Hollow spirit.
This race is about more than the miles—it’s about helping our neighbors when they need it most. 100% of the proceeds from this event will benefit the Warming Center at Mount Pleasant Fellowship in Monticello, KY.
The Warming Center provides a warm, safe place to stay for individuals in need, along with a place to sleep, hot food, and a welcoming space during times when having somewhere warm can make all the difference.
By registering and participating, you’re helping provide warmth, comfort, and basic necessities to members of our community who need a helping hand. Every step you take helps someone stay warm. Every registration makes a difference.
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
51°
Typical Low
31°
Chance of Rain
41%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Monticello 3 Ne, 3 mi from the venue.
Host City
City Elevation
1,025 ft
Nearest Airport
LEX
Blue Grass Airport · 82 mi
Major Hub
TYS
McGhee Tyson Airport · 86 mi
Time Zone
Eastern Time
From Endurance Grid
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Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at Luke's Diner Dash, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
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From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it’s the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.
With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.
Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.
From 5K to marathon, running races are an accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.
Coming Up
Luke's Diner Dash
Dec 5, 2026