Heroes & Holidays
Heroes & Holidays
Join Orange Park Mall and the Veterans Council of Clay County for a community celebration honoring our local heroes while welcoming Santa and kicking off the holiday season.
Enjoy a morning of family fun featuring the annual Tougher Than You Think 5K, Santa’s Grand Arrival, Santa’s Family Fun Run, historic military vehicles, and festive activities for all ages.
Event Schedule
8:00 AM | Tougher Than You Think 5K
Presented by the Veterans Council of Clay County, this annual race honors veterans, active-duty military, first responders, and community heroes. Click here to register.
10:00 AM | Santa’s Grand Arrival
Be there as Santa officially arrives at Orange Park Mall to kick off the holiday season!
10:30 AM | Santa’s Fun Run
Join Santa and friends for a festive, family-friendly fun run featuring costumed characters and holiday games! The first 100 participants will receive a certificate for $10 off a photo package with Santa and a FREE cookie from Mrs. Claus!
The celebration continues until 1 PM with vendors, bounce houses, a petting zoo, reindeer pony rides, face painting, holiday entertainment, and more! Get an up-close look at more than 10 historic military vehicles, including World War II Jeeps, a halftrack, and military motorcycles, and meet the members of the First Florida Chapter of the Military Vehicle Preservation Association (MVPA) who help preserve this history. Meet the enthusiasts dedicated to restoring and preserving these vehicles and learn about the military history they represent.
Celebrate What Matters Most
Heroes & Holidays is a celebration of service, community, and the spirit of the season. We’re proud to partner with the Veterans Council of Clay County, whose annual Tougher Than You Think 5K has become a meaningful tradition honoring those who serve.
Admission to Heroes & Holidays is free. Registration is required for the Tougher Than You Think 5K.
About the Veterans Council of Clay County
The Veterans Council of Clay County is dedicated to supporting local veterans, active-duty military members, and their families. By connecting veterans with valuable resources, advocating for their needs, and bringing the community together, the Council helps ensure those who served receive the recognition, assistance, and support they deserve. Proceeds from Heroes & Holidays benefit the Veterans Council of Clay County and its work throughout our community.
