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Celtic Solstice Five-Miler

December 13, 2025

REGISTRATION INCLUDES

DECEMEBER 13 @ 8:30 AM

  • A Custom Premium Item with Embroidered Logo
  • A Custom Designed Celtic Solstice Bib
  • Convenient Off-Site Packet Pick up at several area locations
  • Free Race Day Parking at the Maryland Zoo
  • Post Race Celebration to include Hot Soup, hot Wassail Wine, Hot Coffee and Hot Chocolate, Bagpipes, Irish Wolfhounds and more
  • A Heck of a Good Time and Plenty of Holiday cheer!

 

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THE YEAR OF THE CRAB

THE 2025 CELTIC SOLSTICE 5-MILER WILL BE DEEMED THE YEAR OF THE CRAB!

The crab stands as a symbol of resilience, adaptability, and protection. While it is, of course, closely tied to the Old Line State, the core of the crab's essence is it's spirit of persistent determination-- a base characteristic of all runners as well. 

Also like many runners, the crab, with its tenacious grip and the armor-like exoskeleton, embodies the art of self-preservation and the capacity to thrive in shifting environments (you know, rain, snow heat, lack of port-o-potties).

The resilient crab teaches us to keep moving towards our goals with the courage and wisdom to realize our dreams regardless of the path or direction we choose (that finish line has got to be around here somewhere!)

Energetic, assertive, and lightning on their feet, the mighty crab embodies many of the same character traits as those in the running community (or at least what we hope to be!)

THE RACE WILL BE CAPPED AT 3,000 PARTICIPANTS.  Please register early to assure that you get a spot in the race as well as the premium size you desire.   The cap is in place based on several logistical concerns such as parking and course capacity.  We choose to limit the number of participants to make it a more pleasurable run for those in the field.  Each year we have countless disappointed folks who do not get in.  Don't be one of them.


REGISTRATION

Registering is easy. Simply CLICK HERE and select the distance you want to run. The “SIGN UP” button will easily guide you through the registration process.

YOUTH ATHLETES 17 and Under can register for a discounted Non-Premium Entry for only $15!  This will be implemented during the registration process.  No code is needed.  PLEASE NOTE:  You must meet the age requirement to sign up for this option. Eligible participants WILL NOT get a premium at this level!

After you register, you will immediately receive an automated email confirmation. 1-2 weeks prior to the event, you will receive confirmation materials via email with specific instructions about the event day.

THE RACE WILL BE CAPPED AT 3,000 PARTICIPANTS.  Please register early to assure that you get a spot in the race as well as the premium size you desire.   


PACKET PICK UP

We will offer several packet pick up options.  A friend can pick up your packet as long as they have your QR CODE (this will be emailed prior to race week).  We will host race premium and bib pick up at several locations as in previous years. 

THERE IS NO RACE DAY PICK UP.  PLEASE MAKE PLANS TO ATTEND ONE OF OUR PICK UP LOCATIONS OR USE THE MAIL MY PACKET OPTION.

REMEMBER, you can also select to have your bib and premium mailed to you.  If you did not do so during registration, you can add this option up until Dec. 1. The mailing fee is $30.  CLICK HERE to see instructions on how to do so.


SOCIAL TEAMS

SOCIAL TEAMS get discounted entry fees, as well as additional benefits and prices.  Running with a friend (or a group!) really is so much more fun than running alone. Once the race is over, a team is there to celebrate, and relax after the accomplishments of the day. Plus, they’ll keep people going and motivate them to keep training or finish strong if they’re starting to feel sluggish mid-race. 

To Learn More About Social Teams CLICK HERE.

ABOUT THE COURSE

The course will start and finish at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore.  The route covers its 5 miles entirely within the confines of scenic Druid Hill Park.  Runners must be able to complete the course within 90 minutes hours (18 min./mile pace).

RACE TIMING/TIME LIMITS/RESTRICTIONS

The Celtic Solstice Five-Miler is a chip-timed event.  Participants must finish the course in 90 minutes.  Participants can run, jog or walk the entire course. Don’t worry, the celebration at the end of the race will be eagerly awaiting you!

Jogging strollers are permitted but are asked to start in the back of the pack.  Wheelchair athletes are permitted but due to safety concerns and street closure restrictions cannot travel faster than the fastest runner.   No bikes, scooters, skateboards or other wheeled vehicles are allowed. 

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MEDICAL

The Medical Team is a dedicated group of medical professionals, available to help assess your race day medical needs and administer acute first aid when necessary. A medical station will be located near the finish line as well as at the water stop along the course.

WATER STOPS

Participants are welcome to bring their own water on course with them. We will have one water stop on the course and water at the finish line to keep your hydration up during the 5 miles. If you need additional on course nutrition such as gel, please bring your own.


AWARDS

We award the top three overall (Male & Female) as well as the top Masters (Male & Female) and top Grand Masters (Male & Female).  Unique to this event, we also recognize the top overall finisher (Male & Female) in each individual age (...15, 16, 17, 18... 78, 79, 80, 81...) with a Christmas Ornament award.

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VOLUNTEER

Interested in volunteering and supporting your community, as well as thousands of runners and walkers? There’s a spot for everyone at volunteer stations including: registration, starting line, finish line, water stops, course monitors and more. Please see HERE for more information and to sign up as a volunteer.

To Learn More About Volunteering CLICK HERE

 

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