A record-breaking 11,100 Santas flooded the streets of Liverpool on 7 December as the BTR Liverpool Santa Dash returned in spectacular festive style, underlining its status as the biggest festive 5K fun run in the UK. Runners in red and blue transformed the city centre into a sea of colour as the event kick-started Christmas celebrations. First staged in 2004, this year’s Santa Dash marked the largest turnout for more than a decade, comfortably surpassing last year’s total of 8,500 participants.

Demand was especially strong for the popular blue Santa suits, with 1,000 places available and all sold out by early November. The event also proved a big hit with families as more than 600 children aged 12 and under took part in the Mini Dash 1K, held after the main 5K had finished.

The 5K route began at Liverpool’s Pier Head, heading along The Strand, through the Grade I listed Royal Albert Dock, around the city centre and finishing in style outside Liverpool Town Hall. Festive stilt-walkers and falling artificial snow greeted Santas as they crossed the line, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.

The dash was officially started by the Lord Mayor of Liverpool, Councillor Barbara Murray, alongside former Liverpool FC goalkeeper Chris Kirkland, an ambassador for the LFC Foundation and mental health advocate, who also took part in the run. The event also welcomed back its official Santa, Father Chello, following a popular appearance last year.

Entertainment along the route came from Rock Choir Liverpool and drumming group Katumba, who helped keep spirits high throughout the morning. Rock Choir returned for a third consecutive year, singing on James Street and Derby Square, while Katumba performed on Dale Street and provided the grand finale at the finish. A green-clad group of Santas representing Irish Community Care also joined the festivities for the first time.

Speaking after the event, BTR Liverpool's Alan Rothwell said: "What an incredible day. The Liverpool Santa Dash brings together so many people from all walks of life. People who have never run – or dashed before. People who would never enter a competitive race. People who are coming along with family, friends or colleagues to be part of the fun. People who want to raise money for charity at this special time of year. Whatever their reason, they will have made special memories which last far beyond the day itself.

“We have 11,100 reasons to say thank you to each and every Santa – red, blue and mini. The Santas are what make the event so special, memorable and, most of all, fun. And we couldn’t do it without the amazing volunteer support. Both go hand in hand. We are the biggest festive 5K fun run in the UK – can we make it even bigger for 2026. Watch this space.”

If you'd like to know more, visit the BTR Liverpool website.

Image: BTR Liverpool