SAVANNAH, GA – September 14, 2026 — Mary’s Place Sexual Assault Center of the Coastal Empire, formerly the Rape Crisis Center, is bringing back one of Savannah’s favorite holiday traditions with the relaunch of the Reindeer Run, a festive, family-friendly race benefiting sexual assault advocacy and prevention education throughout the Coastal Empire.
The Reindeer Run will take place Saturday, December 12, 2026, at Bryan Square at the Savannah Convention Center on Hutchinson Island. Presented in partnership with the Savannah Trade and Convention Center, Sound Physicians and Fleet Feet Savannah, the event will invite runners, walkers and families of all ages to lace up their shoes, embrace the holiday spirit and “run against bullying” as part of the Reindeer Games.
“We are thrilled to bring the Reindeer Run back to our community and create an event that is fun for families while also making a meaningful difference,” said Doris L. Williams, Executive Director of Mary’s Place Sexual Assault Center of the Coastal Empire. “Every step taken and every dollar raised helps us provide advocacy and critical prevention education that empowers children, teens and adults with the knowledge and tools they need to build healthy relationships, recognize unsafe situations and create safer communities. We hope the Coastal Empire will come out in full force to celebrate the return of this special event.”
Participants can choose from three race options designed to accommodate a variety of ages and fitness levels:
- 5-Mile Run/Walk: $35 through Dec. 5; $40 from Dec. 6–10
- 1-Mile Run: $20 through Dec. 5; $25 from Dec. 6–10
- Kiddie Run and Diaper Dash: Complimentary for children ages 10 and under
The event will offer plenty of holiday fun for the entire family. Costumes are highly encouraged, prizes will be awarded for the best costume, and Santa Claus will make a special appearance.
Proceeds from the Reindeer Run will support advocacy and the Prevention Education program at Mary’s Place, which provides training for local schools, colleges and community organizations throughout the Coastal Empire. The program’s educational initiatives empower children, teens and adults through body safety education, digital safety awareness, healthy relationship training and violence prevention initiatives.
In addition to participating in the race, local businesses and organizations can support the event through sponsorship opportunities. Sponsorship levels range from $200 to $5,000, with benefits including race-shirt recognition, event and social media recognition, vendor opportunities, complimentary race registrations and other promotional opportunities. In-kind sponsorships are also available for items and services such as water and refreshments, food, race prizes and giveaways, printing, entertainment, photography/videography and event supplies.
Bib pickup will be available from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, at Fleet Feet Savannah, located at 3405 Waters Ave. Race-day bib pickup will be available from 7:15 to 7:45 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 12, in Exhibit Hall A of the Savannah Trade and Convention Center.
Parking at the Savannah Convention Center parking lots is $10 and must be paid via the QR codes located at the parking lots.
For registration and additional information about the Reindeer Run, visit Mary’s Place at www.marysplacega.org.
