Runners and walkers heading to the Dancing Lights of Christmas 5K Fun Run on Friday, Nov. 6, can pick up their race packets at Fleet Feet Mt. Juliet starting Sunday, Nov. 1.

The untimed fun run at the Wilson County Fairgrounds in Lebanon kicks off the 17th season of the Dancing Lights of Christmas, a 2.5-mile drive-through light and music show that organizers say is Tennessee's largest. This year's fundraising goal is $100,000, with proceeds going to the Nashville chapter of Speedway Children's Charities, which funds Middle Tennessee nonprofits serving children.

The 5K has grown steadily since its first year, when about 1,000 participants raised roughly $20,000, according to the Lebanon Democrat. By 2025, the event drew around 3,000 participants and raised about $80,000. The Nashville chapter of Speedway Children's Charities distributed more than $240,000 to local nonprofits in 2025, according to Nashville Superspeedway.

Mike Scalf, owner of the Dancing Lights of Christmas, told the Lebanon Democrat that the community's support has fueled the event's growth. "There's just something about being among the lights, surrounded by thousands of other people, that you just can't experience from your car," Scalf said.

Instead of driving the route, participants run or walk the 2.5-mile course on foot through the light displays. The event also features a new Santa's Village with carnival rides, a petting zoo, face painting, vendors and visits with Santa.

Registration costs $45 plus fees for ages 13 and older, with discounted rates for children ages 6 to 12 and free entry for children 5 and under. Group discounts are available.

There is no on-site signup.

Registration closes Nov. 6 at 1 p.m. Packet pickup runs Nov. 1 through Nov. 6 at Fleet Feet Mt. Juliet, 630 S. Mt. Juliet Road. There is no packet pickup at the event. Specific daily hours are listed on the registration page.

The full Dancing Lights of Christmas season opens Saturday, Nov. 7, and runs through Sunday, Jan. 3, 2027. Admission starts at $35 per family vehicle. Military members and veterans get free admission Nov. 8 through Wednesday, Nov. 11, and $5 off for the rest of the season.

Upcoming community dates

  • Nov. 1–6: Packet pickup at Fleet Feet Mt. Juliet, 630 S. Mt. Juliet Road
  • Friday, Nov. 6: Dancing Lights 5K Fun Run, Wilson County Fairgrounds, Lebanon. Santa's Village opens at 4 p.m.; festivities begin at 7 p.m.
  • Nov. 7–Jan. 3, 2027: Dancing Lights of Christmas drive-through season, Wilson County Fairgrounds