Run Like the Dickens 2026

Run Like the Dickens 2026
Hold on to your bonnets and top hats, gather the family, and dash into the holiday spirit at this merry one-mile fun run along the beautiful shores of Amelia Island Main Beach. Whether you're racing like the Ghost of Christmas Past is close behind or simply strolling with friends and four-legged companions, this festive tradition is sure to fill your heart with laughter and Christmas cheer. Inspired by the timeless holiday spirit of A Christmas Carol, this beloved Dickens on Centre tradition returns on Saturday, December 12, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. at Main Beach, Amelia Island.

Check-in and onsite registration begin at 7:30 a.m. at the Sandbar Amelia Island. Look for the registration table and prepare to step into a morning filled with festive fun and holiday cheer.

Arrive early for a spirited pre-race warm-up courtesy of the YMCA, guaranteed to awaken even the sleepiest Christmas spirit! The course features a simple beach route—out, around the tree, and back—with direction subject to beach conditions. Follow the T-Rex troop for a guaranteed good time! While this is a fun run and not a chipped race, all participants that finish will receive a Run Like the Dickens medal!

After crossing the finish line, join us at the Sandbar Amelia Island for the awards ceremony and a special visit from Santa Claus, who will be onsite for festive photo opportunities.

Fuel Your Holiday Spirit
The Sandbar Amelia Island will be serving a special $9 breakfast combo, available beginning around 8:00 a.m. from the snack shack window:

• Choice of breakfast sandwich
• Choice of hot chocolate or coffee

The restaurant will also open early for brunch beginning around 9:30 a.m.

Register Today
Register online by Friday, November 20 at 5:00 p.m. to receive an official Run Like the Dickens 2026 T-shirt and medal.

Registrations received after November 20, as well as onsite registrations, will receive a shirt as supplies allow. If unavailable on race day, we will do our best to arrange mailing or pickup at the Amelia Island Welcome Center.

Costumes encouraged. Smiles guaranteed.
Whether you arrive dressed as Scrooge, Tiny Tim, the Ghost of Christmas Present, or simply in your favorite holiday attire, costumes are highly encouraged. Expect plenty of laughter, holiday magic, and memories worthy of Christmases Past, Present, and Future.

All are welcome—including children and dogs.

Run Like the Dickens is presented by the Amelia Island Convention & Visitors Bureau and sponsored by the Amelia Island Tourist Development Council, in partnership with the YMCA, Sandbar Amelia Island, Coastal Vision Center, and Salty Sports Society.

For additional Dickens on Centre information, visit AmeliaIsland.com/Dickens.

Planning an overnight holiday getaway? Visit AmeliaIsland.com/holiday for lodging information.

Registrations are non-refundable.