The area's most popular running event keeps getting bigger and keeps getting better. Aberdeen will once again host the Reindeer Fun for the second year and invites everyone to join the fun -downtown after the race.

The sixth annual Reindeer Fun Run will be Saturday, Dec. 1, and will include a 5k Run/Walk and 12k Run (for more serious competitors), the ever-popular Egg Nog Jog for kids 9 and under, a costume -competition for race participants, and an after party held in downtown Aberdeen with lots of fun events for kids and adults. A Kids' Zone will be open from 8 a.m. to noon.

"This fun community event is for everyone from serious runners to -recreational walkers, families and pets," says Fun/Run organizers.

The Reindeer Fun Run's 5k curves through the historic downtown neighborhoods of Aberdeen with rolling hills and wide turns. The 12k incorporates the 5k route along with a scenic tour of Bethesda and the Malcolm Blue Farm. Both courses finish on a sloping downhill toward downtown Aberdeen.

The Reindeer Fun Run is part of the Sandhills Race Series, which seeks to encourage and recognize participation and performance in local racing and -provide support to organizations -coordinating running events for the -promotion of fun, fitness and community causes. The 2011 Reindeer Fun Run -welcomed more than 2,200 runners and walkers from 25 different states

The mission of the Reindeer Fun Run is to bring the community together to have fun and raise money for the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sandhills. One hundred percent of the proceeds go to benefit the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sandhills. This year's goal is to top the $23,000 raised last year for this organization serving the needs of local kids and families.

For more information, including start times and locations, visit www.reindeer funrun.com.