It was great parking can be difficult due to the direction the event supplies. They say to take an exit that is closed. Last year the events Expo was better than this year's but still nice. I definitely love their jackets this year it was classic. Really enjoyed the DJ read more

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This is one of my favorite 5Ks and it has become an annual run that I do with a friend. This run is well organized and is the case with most runs, the earlier you sign up the lower the registration fee. This race has some of the best swag each year which usually consists of a light-weight jacket which is perfect for 'winter' in the Dallas area. As for packet pickup, it is usually the Thursday and Friday before that Saturday morning race day. It is always in the same location at Fair Park and upon arrival, prepare to pay $10 to park. While this might seem a bit expense since the packet pickup only takes 15 minutes or so, it goes towards reducing the need for paying a parking fee on race day. One can actually stay longer that ~15 minutes as there are quite a few vendors in the packet pickup area. My issue with the vendors is most are setup to do a 'hard-sale' on their product which is never fun. Products tend to include windows for the house, electric companies, girl scout cookies along with a few health/fitness products. Ultimately, I'd like to see them have more products associated with health/fitness and fewer of the unrelated products. That said, the sponsorship helps keep costs down for the runners so we get what we get. In addition to the in-person packet pickup, the alternative is to have your packet and swag mailed which costs $25. On the morning of the run, entrance into the parking lots can move a little slow but they do a great job of keeping things moving to ensure people make it into Fair Park for the run. That said, be sure to arrive early as the parking lots are located ~1 mile from the actual start line for the run. While it's a bit of an inconvenience, it makes for an opportunity to warm up the body before starting the run. In addition to driving to the race, DART is always an option and the Fair Park station is much closer to the start line than the parking lot. The Dallas run is always in February, which makes for cooler temps on the day of the run. That said, once the run starts you will quickly warm up and completely forget about the cooler temp. The route of the run is not the greatest but it has improved over the years. Having participated in this run for many years, it's quite interesting to see the changes that are taking place in this area. From road improvements to fewer homeless camps to new businesses along the route, it's good to see that the city of Dallas is investing in this community. Once you cross the finish line and pick up your medal, head to the main area where you can turn in your ticket for a nice chocolatey treat. This treat includes a cup of hot chocolate, chocolate fondue, a banana and other treats for dipping. It always makes for a nice reward at the end of run in the cooler temps. Overall, this is a fun run and is one I will continue to participate in. NOTE: the Hot Chocolate Run Series is held in 16 other cities throughout the year and they also offer a virtual option. Go to their website (https://hotchocolate15k.com/cities/) to find a nearby location along with the dates, etc. read more

This is one of my most beloved 5Ks that I do with a friend every year. The race is really popular so there are a lot of steps to attend and enjoy. First, sign up as early as you can. It's way cheaper. The swag is usually wonderful, but I have had wonky zippers on two out of three jackets. Secondly, be prepared to pay $10 to park at the expo to pick up your race packet the week before the race. Or pay $25 to have your race packet mailed to you. Finally, parking on race day is funny. Go early because the parking is more than a mile to the starting line. If you can take the dart rail or have someone drop you off, you are winning. Did I mention this race is usually cold? And the course is not that pretty? It adds to the magic of this race. When you cross the finish line (in your shirt or sweater or jacket) you get a nice medal. Keep walking to cash in your ticket for the hot chocolate. Your nice warm drink comes in a big bowl with a chocolate fondu with treats to dip in (bring back the bananas). In summary, this is one of the funnest, coldest, endurance testing, and rewarding races I have attended. read more

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It's surely America's sweetest race! I mean who wouldn't run miles and miles for chocolate??? When one of my co-workers sent me a $5 off coupon to register, I just had to sign up for the whole deal. They have the dri-fit full-zip jackets for men (black color) and women (deep burgundy color), finisher medal, and finisher mug swag. Not to mention, other races will charge you for professional photos. You get FREE race day photos in this case (be on the lookout to look your best - they never fail to get me when I'm looking miserable). Now to run the 5K (I probably could wing it without feeling that burn) versus the 15K (requires a little pushing given it's length)...I opted for the 15K - go big or go home! To avoid the drive to Dallas, I paid an extra fee to mail my packet home. It's worth the money instead of battling traffic after work to attend the expo for that bib and jacket. FYI: they do not have package pickup on race day. The bib was personalized with my name on it. Closer to race day, you can have family members sign up for the live runner tracking to monitor your progress. Unfortunately, there was a glitch/delay in the system. When I crossed the finish line, it didn't text my boyfriend till 10 minutes later (defeats the purpose in a way). Let's talk about the start of the race. Everyone is assigned to a corral based on the pace you registered with. If you're in the slower corrals, you will probably start 10-15 minutes after because they clear the faster runners ahead of you in waves. I showed up 45 minutes before start time. Be sure to check their website before race day; I used the directions they provided coming from 30E and exited Barry Ave as advised and I'm so glad I did because the first couple of exits to Fair Park was packed! This gave me plenty of time to walk from the parking lot to the start line (pretty long walk honestly). Allstate arranged some fun pre-race activities. There were vendors giving out free energy bars and breakfast tacos. There was a hot tub of hot cocoa that you can get into to snap for the gram. On the race course, there were cheerful volunteers handing out sweets/candy. I went straight for the water and electrolytes. Someone managed to set up a whiskey station along the way, so all the runners had a strong whiff of alcohol for motivation. In the end, I was so happy to get my hot chocolate. My favorite was the chocolate fondue with all the dippable snacks - marshmallows, bananas, rice crispy treats, pretzels, etc. I'd say that 9.3 miles was well worth the journey. read more

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Ran the 15k five straight years. Only 15k distance I have found in North Texas. That alone gives 5*. Best race swag I've ever received. Get there early because of the race size and nightmare Fair Park parking. Many people miss the race stuck in traffic read more

Hot Chocolate 15K/5K - Races & Competitions Near Me - Dallas, Texas

The race itself is fun but it seems as though it's one way in one way out so get there early. My biggest gripe is that it os run by VENTURES ENDURANCE. Terrible customer service. No number to contact. Does not return emails. We signed up and had an issue and no one has reached out to help. They're quick to take you donations and sign on fees though. Beware. read more

I try to do a fair amount of timed running/walking events as they push me to stress out the body in a good way, as painful as it is. Besides, it lets me eat and drink more of what is not good for me, right??? One of the MOST fun and rewarding events is the Hot Chocolate 15/5K. It absolutely has the best swag. No debate. The jackets/gear is well worth it. The 15K finisher medal is beyond the coolest! The bib is always worth saving. And finally, the best finisher item is the huge bowl filled with tasty goodies you just earned. Oh, and I forgot to mention some of the water stops have tasty sweet treats! The last one in Dallas was exceptionally well put together. It was well organized and the staff are very knowledgeable. The event organization included plenty of medical assets, if needed, and lots of Dallas' Finest protecting us at the street crossings. All of the Police and Fire were coaching us on. There were also many spectators along the route coaching and cheering! I appreciated the whiskey give aways from one! The route was pretty good and the streets were in pretty good shape. The 15K route was not easy. There was a stiff wind and the minor elevation changes (in Dallas, we call 'em mountains) kicked me to the curb, almost. After my ankle rebuild from last year, I was marginal for this event and should have done the 5k, but the event staff suggested I do the 15 as I had completed the Dallas Half Marathon. The speed was almost too much for me, but, I finished without being the hood ornament of the police car closing the course. There were actually people behind me and not just those older than me! I really appreciate the advice from the event crew, you rock! The only negative was the 2K from the parking lot to the start line was a great warm up, but a challenge after the 15K. I need to get in better shape! Seriously, this is a fun event for 5 or 15. Yelpers should be all over this one! Besides, it is close to Deep Ellum where a post race party would be cool! read more

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Expo: Like others have said, it's kind of ridiculous to have to pay for parking to pick up your packet (this year it was $5). And then you have to walk the long way into the fairgrounds to actually get to the building to get your stuff. The volunteers were really nice + the actual packet pickup was really efficient (didn't have to wait in line at all). Only perk here was the chocolate (chocolate immediately when you walk in, marshmellows dipped in chocolate, and hot chocolate). Booths were eh. Race: Like others have said, the race course isn't too pretty and there are a few areas of long inclines (train for hills!!). There are areas where they give you food, but I didn't stop for any. It looked like they were just giving out marshmallows or M&Ms. Cost was pretty expensive for a 15k, but you get a cute, nice fitting hoodie (I think they're made to look like Lululemon scubas). Postrace: Be prepared to stand in line for your chocolate (but the line goes decently fast). They have areas set up for you to bag your chocolate up if you want to take it home (the melted chocolate will solidify - so eat it fast if you're not taking it home!). They have a few sponsor booths & merchandise booths to look at (the same ones at the expo) and a couple of inflatables/backdrops to take pictures with. Medal: Super cute!! read more

This event was complete garbage. Whoever designed putting this event together has no idea what they were doing. Put in the most crowded area. Didn't even get to race and was in traffic over an hour before the races. 1 hour 2.5 miles read more

We were super excited for this race. The weather was just about perfect. It was our first time doing this 5k. Honestly it was a let down. We were expecting based on the website chocolate stops along the way. They also said there would be plenty of port-a-johns. Neither were true. At the 2 mile of so mark we receive about a dozen nickel sized chocolate chips. That's it?!! What happened to hot chocolate and other chocolate goodies. The path was not bad. Not difficult. At the end there was a plastic mug not even a real mug. Plastic with little compartments for goodies to dip in the chocolate sauce in one of the compartments. Great people who volunteered to cheer us on and help with everything. Was it worth the $50 per person? The jacket was worth about $25. Wish there had been more chocolate as advertised. And more potties than just at the half way mark. Will I do it again next year? I may, my hubby won't. read more

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In 2013 during the winter months there was a little running race named the "Hot Chocolate," that had a 5k and a 15k here in Dallas. They have this little race that visits several cities across the country. This was my first "hot chocolate race" and I have run numerous races, short ones and all the way up to full marathons. So I have seen a few, but I am no speed demon, I have never intended to be one. So, I have seen lots of hard workers out on these courses. My hats off to them all! Like so many races, I have found that most runners have more than the normal cat going on! They tend to be more organized; they take better care of themselves as well as others. Great race! Cold weather and hot chocolate are two things that go Han in hand here! I got the biggest kick out of the volunteers at this race! Such a thoughtful a group! Some of my other notes about the race to follow: Useful: The extra money after everything is paid off and raised goes to the "Ronald McDonald House!" Another note is that gave out to the runners a great, well designed hot chocolate mug of sorts, with fun little treats! Funny: After the race they herded the runners to pick up their grab bag / goodies and their giving orders and encouraging the volunteers was Ronald McDonald the clown, I nearly fell on the ground laughing so hard. It was just a special treat to see someone dress up like that helping out! (Ronald, you're priceless, never change sir!) Cool: The volunteers were really busting their tails to help make this a fantastic race and event! Great job folks, you all did great; my hat is off to you all! Now after I had finished the race, I had to bug out of there pretty fast. Something about having tons of jalapeños the night before, yea, I know better. Ha haha that should have taught me, but life is short! As with all races, let's not to forget to thank the men and women in blue that help keep us safe. It does not take much when you run a race just to thank them; they are usually on every corner on the race route. Great race folks! read more

Fun race, great swag bag and delicious hot chocolate! Ready to do it again next year!! read more

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Outside of the weather being a bit cold, this was a nice event and experience. I did the 5K which started before the 15K. The race organizers suggested arriving early. They weren't kidding as traffic was backed up going into Fair Park. I was a little concerned we might miss the start! At the end of the race, every participant got a Finisher's Mug with hot chocolate, chocolate fondue and various things to dip. As part of the participant "goodie bag", everyone got a hoodie. It seemed to be decent quality. This is a race I'd consider doing again in the future. Although race day parking was free, I was annoyed to pay $10 two days before just to pick up my race packet. I was only there a few minutes on that day. read more

Ran the 15K and the course was a good one with a couple or three reasonable hills to keep it interesting. Lots of really enthusiastic volunteers throughout the course. Goodie bag is nice.. Chocolate at the end was especially welcome given the temps. I agree that the parking ($10) for the expo was pretty steep but that's the venue I suspect not the race. The expo was smallish and with better vendor participation the parking fee might not have been as big a deal. All in all, the key things- the race itself- were very well managed; the course was well laid out, properly marshaled with adequate aid stations. I've run over 100 races over the years and this was better than many from the starting corrals, to the course to the finish area. Nicely done. read more

I was sincerely disappointed with this race. The goodie bag hoodie and the finishers mug are what get this race two stars at most. I was kind of annoyed that I had to pay $5 to pick up our packets at the expo. Another yelper stated that the course wasn't that pretty and they're correct. Very dumpy part of Dallas. There are so many other prettier parts of Dallas I would have traveled further to no problem in order to do this race. It may be just me but did anyone else get more than 5-6 chocolate chips during the race? I did the 5k and got a few chips poured into my hand. That was the only station that I saw handing out chocolate chips. The signs everywhere saying no sitting or standing. Are we supposed to levitate? There was no where to sit and enjoy our finishers cup. I even came with cash because I thought there were going to be more vendors at the race as well. I would have bought shoes, other accessories, etc. There were two vendors I think which I did purchase from but I'm still just disappointed. I was a rec and tourism major in college and have worked tons of races, festivals, expos, etc. and the expo and race were both a let down. I thought there was going to be more for all the hype it was given. There weren't enough people working the tents at the expo either. I waited and waited to be helped. I got tired and just took my packets and left. I thought "I'll see them tomorrow at the race and come back then" but I guess not. I would have loved to have seen more local stores and bakers there selling chocolate items. I don't know what the sponsor or brand war is here but someone needs to sign some more vendors up. I wanted more than just a bunch of shirts with the hot chocolate logo on it. Also the pictures sucked... My fiance and I took a few with one of the photographers and didn't see any of them online. They didn't get any of my fiance crossing the finish line and it was her first race ever... that was also a disappointment. read more

really enjoy this race. Expo could be better and after party could be better. I ran the Dallas Marathon in December and saw what a really good expo is like, the Hot Chocolate is lacking! The after party was much better last year than this year, honestly this years version felt cheap! The hoddies are way better than the wind breakers(all my letters came off of mine :).The one major complaint I have is starting the 5K before the 15k! This makes no sense at all to me! My son was done before I even got lined up he had to wait 2 hours in the cold for me. The 15k should start before the 5 k it just makes more sense! Just FYI to all runners be considerate it is ok if you must slow down or walk but please do not stop in the middle scoot over to the side! read more

This was my first 15K race and i thoroughly enjoyed it. I think everything was very well managed and organized. All volunteers were very enthusiastic! Loved the goodie bag, as well as the finishers mug and goodies...will definitely put this race on my yearly calendar! read more

The over all event was nice. However, I was somewhat irritated that I had to pay $10 for parking to pick up my packet that took less than 10 min. read more

This race was very well organized and the volunteers were awesome! I look forward to doing it next year.

Horrible experience. Traffic was unbelievable. I don't understand how the traffic could be as bad as it was. The Cotton Bowl is home to huge events. They are used to getting people in and out so I'm unsure as to why we had to wait for more than an hour to even get into the Fair Park. There was a lot of concern about making it to the start line. I was picking up a lot of packets - like 11. There were 2 mistakes. I did not receive a bib or a packet for one and I just received a bib for another one. I went to the Help desk on the race morning and was told there was nothing they could do for me. Now, I am stuck having to pay $22 in fees to get the hoodies. I realize that it was partly my fault but I also could have had more help from the volunteers. Finally, how can you not have the ability to help people on Race Day? People make mistakes all the time and to not have the ability to correct is poor event planning. I am so disappointed in my entire experience with RAM Racing. The chocolate was fine but the rest of it is really not acceptable. If you are on the fence about whether to do this race - DON'T! read more

It's not a bad race at all but I think they could at least find a venue that will allow packets to be picked up without having to pay $10 to walk in a building for 5 minutes.....I won't do it again! Dallas is a BIG city, there are other places this can be done. (Not that $10 is a lot of money at all, it's the principle) read more

I loved the race!! Great goodie bag and you get to try on the sizes prior to opening yours. I also don't like that you have to pay $10 to park to get your packet. read more

First timer to the Hot Chocolate15k. Love the swag-this year there was a great jacket. Wasn't crazy about the course. Much of it through unattractive parts of East Dallas. The finish which incudes coming by the empty cattle barns in Fair Park is most unattractive. MOST DISAPPOINTING...they ran out of bananas when we picked up our goodies to eat after the race. Really?! It's not like they didn't have a headcount and know how many bananas to provide. And there were at least 1000 people who finished behind me, who also DIDN'T get bananas. May not do this one again. read more

This was my first experience with the hot chocolate race. Unfortunately, due to an injury, I wasn't able to participate in it. I read the fine print at registration and knew that I wouldn't get a refund, that does not bother me. For one thing, I was very disappointed you had to go to an expo to get your packet, instead of being able to pick it up at a convenient location near you like most other races. But, ok, I still get they wanted you to go by there booths and buy things, but you had to pay to go to an event they were forcing you to go to to get your packet......ridiculous! Then, we got the junky sweatshirts home and they smelled so bad from being pack away. I washed them, they still stunk, I washed them again and soaked them over night, they still smell so bad we can't wear them. And they're so cheap, you can see through them, I probably could've gotten a better sweatshirt at Walmart, and it definitely would've smelled better. Now, I'm not sure if you had to pay to park to do the race, but it wouldn't surprise me. I just felt like they were trying to squeeze every bit of money out of you when it was already an expensive race to begin with. As for me, I do not plan on signing up for this race in the future, I'd rather spend my money on a different one. read more