The Ultra Sweaty Santa returns to Devils Elbow, Missouri on July 18th for its tenth consecutive year as a unique endurance challenge that celebrates Christmas in the heat of summer. Participants can choose between two loops: a full 6-hour race covering six miles or a shorter three-mile option. The event takes place along Old Route 66 near the Big Piney River and is completely free to join, though donations are accepted for Operation Christmas Child. Race day begins at dawn with temperatures already warm, often ranging from around 21°C in early morning hours up to a peak of 31°C by midday. The route features crushed gravel paths that wind alongside the Big Piney River and includes one large hill on the longer loop course where participants can vie for special recognition as Queen or King of "the hill." Aid stations offer hydration options throughout, but runners should prepare with their own portable water devices due to limited stops. Over its decade-long history, Ultra Sweaty Santa has grown from a small local gathering into an annual tradition that attracts hundreds of festive competitors. The race benefits Operation Christmas Child by encouraging participants and spectators alike to donate money or pack shoeboxes filled with toys and school supplies for children in need around the world.
6hrs 6 Hours • Start: 06:00:00
6hrs 6 Hours • Start: 06:00:00
The registration process is straightforward, with a link provided at https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=134666 to sign up online for free participation. Bib pickup will be available on race day from 5:30 am to 6:00 am near the start line located at 21050 Teardrop Road, Devils Elbow MO. First-timers should plan their visit accordingly and arrive early enough to familiarize themselves with the course layout. The event is open to runners of all ages who can complete a three-mile distance within the allotted time frame. The Ultra Sweaty Santa in Devils Elbow offers a distinctive blend of community spirit, endurance testing, and charitable giving that makes it stand out among summer races. With its unique setting along the Big Piney River and engaging costume contest, this event is worth attending for those looking to celebrate with an unusual twist on traditional holiday traditions in scorching July heat.
Races Offered
6hrs
Jul 18, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:00
sell
$0.00
6hrs
Jul 18, 2026
straighten
Distance —
6 Hours
terrain
Type —
Running
timer
06:00
sell
$0.00
Weather History
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for July in Devils Elbow.
thermostatTemperature
20.7° / 31.0°
wb_sunnyFeels like
22.4° / 33.2°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
12h 2m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.2 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
8.2 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Very high
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Very High (8.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
75.6%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
05:59
nightlight
Sunset
20:27
About Devils Elbow
Learn more about the host city, Devils Elbow.
Devils Elbow is an unincorporated community in Pulaski County, Missouri, United States on historic U.S. Highway 66. It is situated on the Big Piney River and is named for a tight incised meander in the river known as a "devil of an elbow". The community is approximately five miles (8 km) east of St. Robert.
