Make a dash for cash during the annual Saints Santa Run

If you ever had a lifelong dream of running a 5K in a Santa suit, or any other holiday-themed costume, here is your chance.

On Saturday, Dec. 4, SSM Health – St. Anthony in Midtown will host the 2021 Saints Santa Run. This event, which returns as an in-person event after going virtual in 2020, is a fun, active and healthy way to celebrate the holiday season with friends, family and maybe even your co-workers. You can choose between a 5K run/walk and a 1K run/walk or both. Kiddos ages 8 and under can participate in the Kids’ Dash. Runners of the four-legged variety are also welcome!

Although you are not required to wear a costume to run any of the races, doing so may just benefit you financially since cash prizes will be awarded for the Best Santa as well as Best Holiday Costume and Runner-Up Holiday Costume. So dust off that ‘Ol St. Nick costume or other holiday outfit you’ve been storing in the attic or closet and join in on the fun! In addition, a $100 prize will be awarded to the male and female overall winners.

Post your photo on Facebook or Instagram and tag @downtownokc with the hashtag #SaintsSantaRun for a chance to be included in their costume roundup.

The morning race time kicks off at 8:45 with the 50-yard Kids’ Dash, followed by the 1K Fun Run/Walk at 9 and then the 5K Run/Walk at 9:15. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. with packet pick-up and other fun activities planned. If you prefer to pick up your registration packet prior to Saturday, you may do so on Friday, Dec. 3, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at St. Anthony hospital, 1000 N. Lee Ave, or at OK Runner, 708 N. Broadway, from 2 to 7 p.m. Advanced registration is encouraged since t-shirt sizes are limited on race day.

The cost to participate in the Saints Santa Run depends on what race or races you enter and when you register. Expect to pay anywhere between $20 to $40 for each event. However, there is no cost for children to participate in the Kids’ Dash.

All proceeds from the Saints Santa Run will go directly to Downtown Oklahoma City Partnership, which provides various services to the downtown-area and downtown businesses. For more information or to register, visit downtownindecember.com/saints-santa-run.