Santa Claus Is Coming to Town: Budapest Prepares for the 9th Annual Santa Run!

Get ready, Budapest! In just two weeks, the city will be taken over by a sea of red as thousands of Santas hit the streets for the 9th Annual PENNY Santa Run on December 8th. This festive event is sure to bring joy, laughter, and a whole lot of holiday cheer to the heart of the Hungarian capital.

A Global Tradition Comes to Budapest

The Santa Run tradition began nearly 50 years ago in the Baltics and has since spread across the globe. From Tokyo to Liverpool and even Las Vegas, these jolly races have become a staple of the holiday season. Now, Budapest is joining in on the fun for the ninth year in a row!

Picture this: the city’s beautiful streets decked out in twinkling lights, a gentle snowfall (courtesy of the Budapest Sports Office), and a massive crowd of Santas running, jogging, and walking their way through the heart of Budapest. It’s a sight that’s sure to put a smile on even the biggest Grinch’s face.

Three Distances for All Ages and Abilities

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or more of a casual stroller, there’s a distance for everyone at the PENNY Santa Run:

5 kilometers for the most dedicated Santas 2.3 kilometers for those who prefer a shorter jaunt 1 kilometer, perfect for families with little ones (this distance is so popular, they’ve added a second race!) So, dust off your running shoes, grab your favorite little elves, and get ready to join in on the fun!

A Record-Breaking Year

If the early registration numbers are any indication, this year’s Santa Run is shaping up to be the biggest one yet. Participants are coming from over 250 Hungarian towns and cities, and the number of pre-registrations has nearly doubled compared to last year. Plus, with a whopping 60% of participants being women and a significant number of international runners (including a 50-person team from the Budapest Japanese School), this event is truly bringing people together from all walks of life.

Spreading Holiday Cheer and Giving Back

The PENNY Santa Run isn’t just about having a good time – it’s also about giving back to those in need. Participants and spectators are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items, toiletries, and gifts for children to donate to the SOS Children’s Villages. These donations will help bring a little extra holiday magic to children living without parents.

So, why should you participate in the 9th Annual PENNY Santa Run? As Árpád Kocsis, the CEO of the Budapest Sports Office, put it: “The Santa Run holds a special place in our hearts every year. The atmosphere is unique, and it offers an experience that everyone should try.” It’s not just a race – it’s a community event that brings people together during the most wonderful time of the year.

Don’t miss out on the 9th Annual PENNY Santa Run! Join thousands of Santas as they bring the holiday spirit to the streets of Budapest. Trust us, it’s an experience you won’t forget!

Practical Information

Date: December 8, 2024 Starting Point: Fővám Square (on the Danube side of the Budapest Corvinus University) Entry Procedure: Participants can enter the starting zone from Közraktár Street (Bálna) Race Times: 10:30 AM – 1 kilometer Family Race 11:00 AM – 1 kilometer Family Race (SOLD OUT) 11:45 AM – 2.3 kilometers 12:45 PM – 5 kilometers Changing Rooms, Lockers, and Toilets: Available at the Lónyay Street Reformed Grammar School Registration: Online registration is open until December 4th.

So, what are you waiting for? Register now, and get ready to spread some holiday cheer in your very own Santa suit!

Image source: Mikulásfutás