America’s sweetest run is back for our most indulgent Hot Chocolate Run season yet in Columbus on November 19, 2023! With 5K, 10K, and 15K distances and a post-run party that’ll make you go cocoa crazy, you and your friends will experience the ultimate chocolate celebration!
award-winning swag kit
Hot Chocolate Run kits are choc-full of sweetness! An exclusive full-zip hoodie and finisher’s medal that will make you melt are included with every Hot Chocolate Run registration!
race day experience
What would a CHOCOLATE run be without the CHOCOLATE? The sweetest award awaits you at the finish line. (And no, we aren’t talking about that well-deserved medal!) Indulge in a finisher mug overflowing with chocolate fondue, dippables, and, of course, our famous HOT CHOCOLATE! Still not enough chocolate? Stop by the pre-event expo where you can warm-up your sweet tooth, check out vendors, and stock-up on Hot Chocolate merch. And for the cherry (or should we say marshmallow?) on top of this chocolate experience, join the Cocoa Club!
location & time
McFerson Commons - 218 West Street, Columbus, OH 43215
5k start time: 7:30 am
10k start time: 7:30 am
15k start time: 7:30 am
Gear check opens 60 mins before start time.
Please note that your bib must be fully visible on the front of your torso and fully attached for you to receive an accurate time and to access your start corral.
post-run party
expo
Greater Columbus Convention Center, Hall A--400 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Our Hot Chocolate Expo is free and open to the public. Pick up your runner’s kit (including your race day swag and bib!), indulge in delicious CHOCOLATE, gear up on Hot Chocolate merchandise, and visit our exciting vendors!
Saturday, November 18, 2023
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Suggested expo parking: Goodale Garage, 70 East Goodale Street, Columbus, OH 43215
If you do not choose to have your packet mailed, you must attend expo to pick up your packet.
parking
We encourage public transportation and carpooling for all participants! No parking is allowed on the course, and vehicles that do not adhere to event no parking signs will be towed. Click below to view all travel and parking recommendations:
hotel
Find a hotel located close to the start line! Book your stay using the HotelPlanner link below to take advantage of exclusive discounted rates.
photos & timing
Free high-res photos and your race time will be emailed to all participants as soon as they cross the finish line. The link below will also be updated on race day, so be sure to check back then!
Columbus course highlights
Rich Street Bridge Over Scioto River
Bicentennial Park
Nationwide Arena
Union Station Arch
Columbus Chocolatiers will start in the scenic Riverfront District and finish alongside Nationwide Arena, home of the Columbus Blue Jackets! You’ll experience a running tour of Columbus’ Riverfront and Arean districts as you race by the Scioto River and through Downtown Columbus, passing by iconic neighborhoods including the River South District, Brewery District, German Village, Uptown District, Victorian Village, and Short North.
Top 3 male and female winners in the 5K, 10K and 15K:
- Will be announced at the Post Race Party at the DJ Stage
- Receive 100% off next year’s registration and $40 merch coupon emailed 1-2 weeks after the race
1st Place in each Age Group for the 5K, 10K and 15K:
- Receive 100% off next year’s registration and $40 merch coupon emailed 1-2 weeks after the race
- Age Groups: U14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69, 70+
find your gear
national sponsors
don't miss the details