This is the second year that I've run this race and I have enjoyed it both times. This is not a huge event, so it is not really comparable to one; that is just a different experience. However, this is a small, local event with a ton of charm (Mount Juliet is the first town east of Nashville). I would consider the pricing moderate, and the event raises money for a local charity (Christmas with a Cop).

The "expo" is really more like packet pickup. It takes place at the local Middle School with a few vendors, but it's really your opportunity to get your number, shirt, ornament, and jingle bells for your shoes. The one gripe that I have with this race is the shirts - they are long sleeve unisex shirts (no women's cut).

The race began this year at a luxurious 10:45 AM - loop course that begins and ends at the same Middle School as packet pickup. Parking is easy and you can stay warm in the Middle School until the race starts. The race itself kicks off the town's annual Holiday Parade, so there are lots of spectators lined up along the main street.

The course is all on roads and was redesigned this year to make it less hilly. It was less hilly (through not entirely flat), but it also lost some of the more scenic areas. Some of the roads are busy, others are quieter, but they are never entirely shut down so runners have to be a bit careful. The aid stations aren't as plentiful as large races, but they are well stocked and the volunteers are fantastic.

After finishing, runners collect their medals and can head inside for snacks and beverages (no post race beer here). The races has great awards for overall and age group winners. So if you're in the area and looking for a nice, festive race to run, definitely consider this one - either the half marathon or the 5k. I'll definitely be back!