Instead of the usual hot July 4th tradition, the Polar Opposite Peachtree gives runners a winter twist on Atlanta’s most famous 10K. The 2026 edition starts in Piedmont Park, heads out along Peachtree Street, and finishes at Lenox Square, letting participants run down Cardiac Hill rather than grind up it. The route is fully paved, closed to traffic, and designed as a fast, downhill-leaning course that’s perfect for chasing a 10K PR while still enjoying all the Peachtree vibes. Entry typically includes a fleece hoodie, finisher medal, and a MARTA pass to help runners park at the finish and ride to the start, keeping logistics simple in the city. With music, crowds, and the feel of a “cool-weather sister race” to the AJC Peachtree Road Race, it’s quickly becoming a must-do in Atlanta’s running calendar.
Race
The AJC Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race 10K is held on the first Saturday of January — for 2026 that’s Saturday, 3 January 2026 — in Atlanta, Georgia, organised by the Atlanta Track Club as the “north” version of the iconic Peachtree Road Race. Run in the opposite direction of the traditional July 4th Peachtree, the 10 km course starts near Piedmont Park on 10th Street and finishes at Lenox Square, reversing Cardiac Hill and giving runners a chilly, uphill winter challenge on Atlanta’s most famous running route.
Weather based on historical averages.
FAQs
What is the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race?
How long is the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race?
Where does the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race take place?
What is the elevation gain of the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race?
How can I prepare for the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race?
How do I choose the right training plan for the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race?
The AJC Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race 10K is held on the first Saturday of January — for 2026 that’s Saturday, 3 January 2026 — in Atlanta, Georgia, organised by the Atlanta Track Club as the “north” version of the iconic Peachtree Road Race. Run in the opposite direction of the traditional July 4th Peachtree, the 10 km course starts near Piedmont Park on 10th Street and finishes at Lenox Square, reversing Cardiac Hill and giving runners a chilly, uphill winter challenge on Atlanta’s most famous running route.
The Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race is 10km long.
The Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race takes place in Atlanta, GA, USA.
Runna classifies the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race elevation profile as Rolling.
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
What is the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race?
The AJC Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race 10K is held on the first Saturday of January — for 2026 that’s Saturday, 3 January 2026 — in Atlanta, Georgia, organised by the Atlanta Track Club as the “north” version of the iconic Peachtree Road Race. Run in the opposite direction of the traditional July 4th Peachtree, the 10 km course starts near Piedmont Park on 10th Street and finishes at Lenox Square, reversing Cardiac Hill and giving runners a chilly, uphill winter challenge on Atlanta’s most famous running route.
How long is the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race?
The Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race is 10km long.
Where does the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race take place?
The Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race takes place in Atlanta, GA, USA.
What is the elevation gain of the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race?
Runna classifies the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race elevation profile as Rolling.
How can I prepare for the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race?
The best way to train for the next race is to use a personalised training plan that takes into account your current running ability, schedule, and preferences.
This will help you steadily improve your running performance and get ready for the race without risking an injury.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
How do I choose the right training plan for the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race?
Which plan you choose will depend on your experience, schedule, objectives, and the date of the race.
Runna offers personalised training plans for every runner and every goal: Whether this is your first, 10th or 100th race, we'll help you get the most out of your training and smash your goals.
Check out our training plans to find the best running program for your goals!
This event listing is for informational purposes only. Runna is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race or Atlanta Track Club. All event details are based on publicly available information and are provided solely to help users discover running events. Runna does not use any official logos, images, or proprietary content from this event or its organiser. Any trademarks or names mentioned are used descriptively to identify the event in a factual manner. For the most accurate and up to date information (including to register or purchase an entry to the event), please visit the Polar Opposite Peachtree Road Race website.
