Everything you need to know about the Leeds Santa Dash this weekend

It's that time of year again when hundreds dress up as a jolly, bearded man in a red suit for a brisk run around Leeds city centre.
Last year's Big Leeds Santa Dash in ad of St Gemma's HospiceLast year's Big Leeds Santa Dash in ad of St Gemma's Hospice
Last year's Big Leeds Santa Dash in ad of St Gemma's Hospice

The Big Leeds Santa Dash returns this weekend, just two weeks before the big day, to raise money for a very important cause.

Here is everything you need to know about tomorrow's event.

When and where is it?

Last year's Big Leeds Santa Dash in ad of St Gemma's HospiceLast year's Big Leeds Santa Dash in ad of St Gemma's Hospice
Last year's Big Leeds Santa Dash in ad of St Gemma's Hospice

The 2019 Santa Dash takes place in Leeds city centre on Sunday morning, December 15.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Runners will congregate on the corner of Albion Place and Lands Lane outside WHSmiths at 9am on Sunday. The run itself begins at 9.30am.

What is it in aid of?

Hundreds dress as Santa will run the course around Leeds city centre to raise money for St Gemma's Hospice.

Last year's Big Leeds Santa Dash in ad of St Gemma's HospiceLast year's Big Leeds Santa Dash in ad of St Gemma's Hospice
Last year's Big Leeds Santa Dash in ad of St Gemma's Hospice

St Gemma's is Leeds' hospice for children who have serious and life-limiting illnesses.

The hospice needs £10m each year to stay open, and relies on the support and donations from the community in Leeds.

How far is it to run?

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The Santa Dash is a 5k run - just like Parkrun. Anyone of any age can take part, as long as you're dressed as Father Christmas, or at the very least, suitably festive!

The course is simply five 1k laps around the pedestrianised area of the city centre.

If you're out doing your Christmas shopping on Sunday, don't be surprised if you see a lot of sweaty Santas swigging from water bottles milling about.

Do you have to pay to take part?

Yes, there is an entry fee to take part but this is to raise the vital funds for St Gemma's.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Costs are £15 for adults, £8 for children and £40 for a family. However, St Gemma's have said this year's Dash has now sold out, so unless you've already got a ticket, you'll have to make do with just watching.