As it's December, we feel we can finally mention the C-word in the runABC South area. Christmas is just around the corner, and if you are going to engage your inner Santa for a festive fun run, you need to get your skates on!

Having mixed our metaphors, as well as our cocktails, let's see what prolific race organisers Nice Work are offering to tempt us to suit up and turn up during this festive season...

First out of the blocks is the Mince Pie 10 at Peacehaven, East Sussex, on Sunday 7 December. This challenging multi-terrain ten-miler sells out every year, and 2025 is no exception, as a waiting list is in operation for any cancellations. Click here to join the wait list...

One week later, on Sunday 14 December, you can get into the Christmas spirit in Northamptonshire or Essex. Salcey Forest is between Northampton and Milton Keynes, and the beautiful, tree-lined woodland paths are the venue for a wonderful trail race over 5K or 10K, plus a 1.2K Junior Fun Run, perfect for both novices and race veterans. Discounted parking is available for runners.

Nice Work says: "Come for the seasonal atmosphere, the festive cheer and the finish-line medals! And, don't forget, seasonal fancy dress is most welcome! Santa hats at the ready!"

Perhaps you want to combine your seasonal celebration with a crack at a PB over the more infrequently run five miles. In that case, the Southend Rudolph Run on 14 December is the event for you. The course is pancake flat on the promenade. This is another event with a waiting list – click here to join – and there is a supporting Rudolph Scurry for kids in a hurry!

With Santa almost here, we look ahead to the 20th year of the Christmas Pudding Dash at Pett (near Hastings) in Sussex on Saturday 20 December. Nice Work's description for this perennially popular race reads: "This cross country event is great for all the family, with the main race being accompanied by a Fun Run and the Children's Drumsticks Scurry. There truly is something for everyone and afterwards, bask in the festive spirit and enjoy a yummy mince pie. It's seasonal bliss with a racing twist!"

Finally, nothing says Christmas more than the Kent Christmas Cracker 5 at Betteshanger Country Park. The fast, flat, two-lap course provides a last chance to end the year with a PB for five miles. The race raises valuable funds for Shelter, plus there is a supporting 2-mile Fun Run and a 1K Junior Run. Entries were still available as we went to press, and some entries may be available on the day, as the broad tarmac circuit can accommodate a large field.

To see all the Nice Work Christmas Races, click here.

For all festive fixtures, go to the runABC South race listing here.

Photo courtesy of Nice Work