Local children’s charity Charlie House is inviting families, friends, and even four-legged companions to don their Santa suits and dash through the heart of Aberdeen, as the ever-popular Santa Run makes its return.
Organised in partnership with Aberdeen City Council and kick-starting the annual Aberdeen Christmas Parade, registrations for the Santa Run on Sunday, 16 November are now open.
Starting at Holburn Junction, a flurry of Santas will head down Union Street, along Union Terrace, and collect their well-earned medals at the Aberdeen Art Gallery finish point.
By joining the Santa Run, participants will be helping Charlie House continue its mission to support children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions and their families.
Santa Run organiser Katie Bremner said: “The Santa Run is a brilliant way to bring the community together, and we’re encouraging everyone to sign up, spread the word, and help us make this the most magical run yet!
The Santa Run, generously sponsored by Score, is open to all levels – families with little and not-so-little ones, wheelchair users, seasoned runners, and fun runners. Whether you’re walking, jogging, rolling, or running, everyone is welcome to join in the fun and help make a difference.”
Katie adds: “Every step taken and every pound raised will go directly towards providing essential services, accessible activities, and support. Thanks to funds raised by our community, children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions can take part in activities their families never thought possible. From wheelchairs on a paddleboard to accessible surfing to cuddling goats on a farm visit, the children and families we work with can experience memorable moments together.
“These activities not only create memories to cherish, they also connect families facing similar experiences, helping them feel less isolated. Like the emotional and practical support we provide, all our activities are at no cost to the families we work with. By taking part in the Santa Run, you are helping local children and their families thrive.”
Left to right: Spotless the Leopard Katie Bremner Charlie House Lord Provost Dr David Cameron
Aberdeen Lord Provost, Dr David Cameron said: “The Charlie House Santa Fun Run provides the perfect festive start to our much-loved Christmas Parade. It is an event that brings a smile to not only my own face, but to the thousands of people who line the streets to watch the fabulous sight of hundreds of Santas, and not forgetting the 'Santa-Paws', running through the streets of Aberdeen!
"Charlie House and their incredible volunteers continue to do great work across our city, supporting families and improving the lives of children when they need help the most. It's therefore crucial that we continue to support events like the Santa Fun Run, so that Charlie House can continue their amazing work in our communities.
“So, sign up today and grab your Santa suit – your support will be very much appreciated!”
Ticket prices start at £10 for children, £15 for adults, and £7 per pup. Full details on ticket options for families and four-legged friends are available on the Charlie House website. https://www.charliehouse.org.uk/events/santa-run
Santa suits and bib numbers for attendees, as well as festive bandanas for participating pooches, can be collected from the check-in station at Fountainhall Church, Albyn Place, from 3:00pm on Sunday, 16 November 2025.
Participants must be aged 16 or over to register themselves. Those aged 15 and under, and Santa Paws, must be registered and accompanied by an adult throughout the event.