Sleighbells on the Square returns to Glover Park and Historic Marietta Square in December, bringing festive race energy to the heart of downtown. The annual event features a chip-timed, USATF certified 5K that qualifies for the AJC Peachtree Road Race, along with a 1K and a Tot Trot for younger runners. Holiday attire is encouraged, so expect everything from reindeer ears to sweaters that jingle with every stride. Strollers and dogs are welcome, so the family can roll and trot along together.
The race benefits the Cobb County Bar Association’s Children’s Emergency Fund, a 501(c)(3) that provides emergency grants to Cobb County households facing financial crises. The fund steps in to help with essentials such as utility bills, clothing, medicine, and housing costs, giving local families a lifeline during tough times. Every registration helps keep that support going.
Race day unfolds on and around the Marietta Square with a full morning of activity. The 5K starts at 8 am and is electronically timed on a USATF certified course, making it suitable for runners chasing a Peachtree qualifying time and for walkers who prefer a more relaxed pace. The 1K follows at approximately 9:10 am, and the Tot Trot steps off at around 9:20 am. The awards ceremony begins at 9:30 am.
Awards for the 5K include custom medals for the top three male and female finishers overall, the top three masters finishers, and the top three finishers in each age group from 10 and under through 75 and older. For those who prefer to log miles on their own schedule, a virtual 5K option allows participants to run or walk their distance any time and any place, from neighborhood streets to a favorite trail or treadmill.
All in-person and virtual 5K participants, along with 1K and Tot Trot runners, receive a long sleeve event T-shirt, with size availability guaranteed for those who register early.
For runners with a need for speed, the Beat the Bell Contest adds a fun twist. Registered participants can opt into the contest during registration for no extra charge. One name will be drawn from all entrants, and the winner will be notified and invited to race the Sleighbells Running Bell in a short sprint on race morning between 7:30 and 7:45 am at the Marietta Square race site. If that runner beats the Sleighbells Running Bell, the prize is $250 along with serious bragging rights.
Pre-race packet pickup takes place a day prior to the event at Big Peach Running Co. Kennesaw, located at 1625 Ridenour Blvd., Suite 304, Kennesaw, GA 30152. Race day packet pickup begins at 7:15 am on race day, at Glover Park on the Marietta Square. T-shirts will not be mailed, so picking up in person is essential.
The race is held rain or shine, and refunds are not available, so participants may want to keep an eye on the forecast and plan layers accordingly.
Date:
Saturday, December 13, 2025
Time:
8 am to 9:30 am
Admission:
5K and 1K: $30–$45
Tot Trot: $10–$15
Virtual 5K: $35–$40
Sign up online
Address:
Glover Park and Historic Marietta Square
10 East Park Square
Marietta GA 30060
Parking:
Marietta Square Parking
For more information, please contact the Cobb County Bar Association via the Sleighbells on the Square Facebook page.
