Kids can kick off the holiday season Friday by taking part in The Gingerbread Man Mile at Reston Town Center.

The event, sponsored by Potomac River Running and Reston Town Center, is free. Donation are encouraged. All donations benefit Neediest Kids.

The 8 a.m. race on covers a one-mile loop around Reston Town Center. Once kids finish, they can enjoy delicious gingerbread cookies and get ready for the 11 a.m. Reston Holiday Parade.

Online registration closes Tuesday at 9 p.m.

The first 800 registrants receive a Gingerbread Man Mile T-shirt.

PACKET-PICKUP: Wednesday at Potomac River Running Store, Reston Town Center from 3-7 p.m. Late registration also available that day. Also, packet pick up and late registration available Friday beginning at 7 a.m. at Potomac River Running Store at Reston Town Center.

RACE SCHEDULE:

8:00 a.m. – 6-7 year olds (1 mile)

8:15 a.m. – 8-9 year olds (1 mile)

8:30 a.m. – 10-11 year olds (1 mile)

8:45 a.m. – 12-14 year olds (1 mile)

9:00 a.m. – High School Division (1 mile)

9:10 a.m. – 4-5 year olds (one loop, approx .4 mile)

9:20 a.m. – Tot Trot (2 blocks)

Following the final race, awards will be presented to the top three girls and boys finishers in each race (all tot trot finishers will receive a ribbon). Race winners will be able to take part in the parade following the races.  All winners will be escorted to the parade following the award ceremony.

*Please note: You must pick up your packet at one of the designated times. Packets will not be mailed after the race. In addition, awards must be claimed within two weeks of the conclusion of a race.

For more information and online registration, click here.