The holiday season in Cumberland County will begin with jingling bells, running shoes, and a strong sense of community as the 14th Annual Green Beret Jingle Jog returns Saturday, Dec. 6, at Dirtbag Ales Brewery and Taproom.
Organized by Special Forces Association Chapter 100, the Jingle Jog has become a cherished tradition in the Fayetteville area, blending festive fun with a serious mission: raising funds to support Green Berets and their families. Proceeds from the event benefit programs that provide assistance to soldiers of the 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) and the broader Special Operations Forces community.
“This race is about more than fitness,” said organizers Kyle and Susana Hiser. “It’s about honoring service, building community, and ensuring families of Special Forces soldiers know they are supported.”
Race Details
The Jingle Jog will feature both 5K and 10K races, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Runners will gather at Dirtbag Ales, located at 5435 Corporation Drive in Hope Mills, where the brewery will host the event and provide space for vendors, post-race celebrations, and family activities.
Registration fees range from $33 to $45, depending on race length and date of sign-up. Discounted rates are available for high school students, JROTC, and ROTC participants, encouraging younger athletes to join in the tradition. Packet pickup will be held at Fit4Life All American, 210 Owen Drive in Fayetteville, on Dec. 5 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Race-day registration will also be available, though organizers recommend early sign-ups to guarantee race shirts and preferred sizes.
The Jingle Jog is known for its holiday spirit. Participants often run in festive costumes, with strollers and pets welcome on the course. Families line the route to cheer on runners, creating a lively and supportive environment. The event has grown steadily over the years, drawing athletes from across North Carolina and beyond.
Local businesses and organizations play a key role in sustaining the event. This year’s sponsors include Dirtbag Ales, Fayetteville Soccer Club, and Fit4Life All American, each contributing to the race’s success and community impact.
• Dirtbag Ales provides the venue and post-race gathering space, offering a family-friendly environment for runners and spectators.
• Fayetteville Soccer Club, a cornerstone of youth athletics in the region, supports the event by encouraging families and young athletes to participate, reinforcing the connection between sports and community service.
• Fit4Life All American, a leading fitness facility in Fayetteville, not only hosts packet pickup but also promotes the event through its network of members and fitness enthusiasts.
Mission Beyond the Finish Line
While the Jingle Jog is festive and fun, its purpose is deeply meaningful. Funds raised go directly to programs that assist soldiers and their families in times of need, whether through financial support, memorial initiatives, or community outreach.
“Every step taken in this race represents a step toward helping a soldier or family in need,” said Kyle. “We’re proud to see the community rally behind this cause year after year.”
The Special Forces Association emphasizes that the Jingle Jog is not just a race but a fundraiser with lasting impact. The event has helped provide scholarships, emergency assistance, and support for memorial services honoring fallen soldiers.
The Jingle Jog has become a cornerstone of the Fayetteville-area fitness and military community calendar. With Fayetteville’s strong military presence, the event resonates with service members and their families, many of whom rely on fitness as a cornerstone of resilience and readiness.
Sponsors say their involvement reflects a commitment to both health and community. Fayetteville Soccer Club highlights the importance of teaching young athletes about service and giving back, while Fit4Life All American emphasizes the role of fitness in building stronger communities. Dirtbag Ales, meanwhile, has become a hub for local events, offering a space where families can gather and celebrate.
Looking Ahead
Kyle and Susana Hiser hope to continue growing the Jingle Jog, expanding participation and sponsorships to ensure even greater support for Special Forces families. With its mix of holiday cheer and meaningful purpose, the event has become a tradition that embodies the spirit of Fayetteville and Hope Mills.
“This is about community,” said Susana. “It’s about showing our soldiers and their families that we stand with them, not just during the holidays but all year long.”
Register at https://greenberetjinglejog.itsyourrace.com . The Green Beret Jingle Jog is more than a race. It is a celebration of service, resilience, and community spirit. Whether running in costume, cheering from the sidelines, or supporting through sponsorship, participants are part of a movement that honors soldiers and strengthens the bonds of Fayetteville and Hope Mills.