CarMax Tacky Light Run
step into a tacky wonderland!
We’re turning RVA’s tacky light tradition into a can’t miss event for walkers, runners, Santa-lovers, and elves-at-heart! Spend the night immersed in holiday cheer and discover dozens of homes with over-the-top tacky lights in the Walton Park neighborhood. Rally your family and friends because this is a night that’ll have you feeling like you’ve landed in the North Pole!
Registration will open in July.
Key Event details
WHat’s included?
Every participant receives admission to the North Pole, choice of a knit beanie or event shirt, ornament finisher medal, commemorative bib, plenty of photo ops, and Wegmans Candy Can WOs for a sweet treat.
Course Overview
Get ready for a festive 6k through Midlothian’s Walton Park, where dozens of homes go all out with tacky holiday lights. Wear your ugliest sweater, grab your brightest gear, and join thousands for a fun run (or walk) full of holiday cheer—and plenty of photo ops!
Event Schedule
Saturday, December 13
3:45 p.m. – Twilight 1-Mile Kids Run
6:00 p.m. – CarMax Tacky Light Run Begins
Event Pricing
Adult $ / Youth $ / Twilight 1-Mile Kids Run
July 25 – July 28: $35 / $25 / $20
July 29 – September 30: $40 / $30 / $20
October 1 – November 20: $45 / $35 / $20
November 21 – December 8: $50 / $40 / $25
December 9 – December 13: $55 / $45 / $25
The CarMax Tacky Light Run is limited to the first 5,000 registrants.
Event CharitY: Sports Backers Youth Programs
Sports Backers is committed to building a more active future for our region through our youth programs—Kids On The Move and the Active Living Leadership ALL Stars. From introducing young kids to running and fitness clubs that boost both physical and social well-being, to supporting teens as they prepare for college, we’re passionate about helping Richmond’s youth thrive. We provide essentials like athletic shoes for kids in need, fund transportation so clubs can join our events, and offer leadership development and scholarships to student-athletes. Your donation helps us invest in what matters most — our kids. By encouraging healthy habits today, we’re strengthening our community for tomorrow.
Merry & Bright For all!
The CarMax Tacky Light Run is all about spreading holiday cheer, and we want everyone to join the fun! We’re proud to offer income-based rates to help make the magic accessible to all families, and for those who can’t join us in person, there’s a virtual option so you can celebrate from anywhere. Plus, we even have a Twilight 1-Mile Kids Run just for our littlest elves!
Twilight 1-Mile Kids Run
This fun run lets kids ages 4-12 race through a North Pole forest and the famous CarMax Tacky Light Run tunnel, finishing with medals, Santa, cookies, and a festive North Pole party! It’s the perfect way for little runners to join the holiday fun.
income-based rates
Engaging underserved populations is one of Sports Backers core values and one way we achieve this is by offering lower priced event entries to those who qualify.
Income-Based Rate = $15
Virtual event
Can’t make it to our in-person event? This is the perfect way for you to still be a part of the fun. Plus, you’ll still earn all of the swag! Don’t miss the chance to earn your favorite new ornament.
Bring the Cheer & Win!
Go all out in your brightest, tackiest gear for the Costume Contest, or help your neighborhood light up the night in the Neighborhood Superlative Contest! Whether you’re dazzling solo or repping your block, bring the spirit and make the CarMax Tacky Light Run a night to remember!
rules & Regs
We know, we know—rules aren’t the most exciting part of event day. But, they’re what keep our events running smoothly. Please take a minute to check out the do’s, don’ts, and guidelines that help make this event awesome for everyone.
FAQs
Questions? We’ve got answers! Check out the FAQs for everything you need to know about the CarMax Tacky Light Run and Twilight 1-Mile Kids Run, from race day logistics to course details and more.
How much does the Carmax tacky light run cost?
Adult $ / Youth $ / Twilight 1-miler
July 25 – July 28: $35 / $25 / $20
July 29 – September 30: $40 / $30 / $20
October 1 – November 20: $45 / $35 / $20
November 21 – December 8: $50 / $40 / $25
December 9 – December 13: $55 / $45 / $25
How can i confirm my registration?
Click here to confirm your registration for this year’s event.
What Participants Are Saying!
…this night always goes down as our family’s favorite—simply for bringing everyone together!
Tara Riley Krohn, 2024 Participant
…we love the vibe, we love the tackiness, we love the lights and any excuse to dress up—it’s just fantastic.
Katie Jepson, 2024 Participant
Thank you to our SPonsors
Thank you to our amazing sponsors who make this event possible. They are helping us create a healthier, more active community.
Volunteer
Opportunities
Be part of the team that keeps our community moving! Whether you’re handing out water or spreading festive cheer along the course, every volunteer plays a vital role. Join our team and help bring the magic of race day to life!
Register Now!
Whether it’s your first or tenth CarMax Tacky Light Run, we’ve got the glow, the cheers, and the festive North Pole finish line waiting for you. Sign up today and help spread even more cheer by supporting our event charity!