EXCLUSIVE: Dundee’s Santa Dash to return for the first time in three years

The last Santa Dash took place in 2022 (Picture: Supplied)

The Dundee Santa Dash is making its long-awaited comeback for 2025, bringing festive fun back to the streets of the city for the first time in three years, Dundee Culture can exclusively reveal.

Taking place on Sunday 16 November, the event invites Dundonians to run, jog, walk or wheel a 4k route dressed as Santa Claus, all while raising funds for Cash for Kids (Tayside & Fife).

Participants will complete two laps around Dundee city centre, starting and finishing in front of City Square, and passing some of the city’s most recognisable landmarks along the way.

The event will kick off at 10:30am following a lively warm-up session led by Active Dundee coaches to get everyone in the Christmas spirit.

The event will take place on 16 November (Picture: Supplied)

Open to all ages and abilities, the Santa Dash welcomes families, children and even dogs to join in on the festive cheer.

Every participant will receive a goodie bag and a finishers medal, rewarding the effort rather than the speed, with organisers encouraging everyone to simply enjoy the day.

Council leader Mark Flynn said:

“I’m delighted to hear that the Dundee Santa Dash is back this year. Whether running or walking, I encourage everyone to get involved. Not only will it be an enjoyable experience and good exercise, but it also supports an important charity in Dundee, Cash for Kids.

They do so much to help improve the lives of disadvantaged children and young people in our city and region, I’m proud that this race is supporting them.

I’m looking forward to seeing all the participants dashing around the streets and spreading the Christmas cheer!”

The event will raise money for Cash for Kids (Picture: Supplied)

Dundee City Council’s spokesperson for culture, sport and history, Councillor Lynne Short, added:

“Christmas is a wonderful time of year to come together and have fun, but it’s also time to remember others and support those in need. Sport and physical exercise, such as running or walking, is a great way to unite people, it’s great for our mental health and wellbeing, and a great way to raise much needed support for good causes.

Dundee has a proud history of great athletes, and I would count those who take part in the Santa Dash among them!”

Registration for the Dundee Santa Dash 2025 is now open, with full details and route information available at eventfull.biz.

So grab your Santa suit, lace up your trainers, and get ready to dash through Dundee this Christmas!