Brighton Santa Dash
Participants dress up in Santa suits to run, jog, or walk a flat seaside course along the Esplanade from Hove Lawns out to Hove Lagoon and back. The event fills the seafront with festive tunes, feel-good cheer, and a massive gathering of Santas by the water. Family members and spectators can watch the spectacle or cheer on runners along the route.
What to Expect
A festive seafront 5k fun run dressed in Santa suits.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Brighton Seafront
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Brighton Santa Dash
Food & Drink
The event says there may be a mince pie or two; no other food or drink is specified.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, casual runners and festive walkers
Vibe
Jolly and festive
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
££
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: £25 entry, including an optional £5 donation to charity that can be opted out of at the point of entry, plus a £1.60 handling fee. Entry includes race entry, a Santa suit and a bespoke medal. – Get tickets
- Hours: 10:30am.
- Parking: The page urges visitors to walk, ride or use public transport. NCP car parks within walking distance include West Street, Russell Square and Churchill Square; hourly parking is also available on Kings Road.
Tips & Advice
- Come already dressed in your sports kit, because there are no changing facilities and you pick up your Santa suit at the start.
- Walk, cycle or come by train if you can; the course is about a 10-minute walk from Brighton station down West Street towards Hove.
- Bring the children along to watch, since they can join the free 400m kids' race before the main event and each get a medal.
- Set up a JustGiving page for Rockinghorse Children's Charity before race day if you want your Santa miles to raise money for sick children in Sussex.
Special Events & Promotions
- Free kids' 400m race before the main dash; just turn up, and every child gets a medal.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a runner to take part?
No. Everyone is welcome, from seasoned runners to casual walkers. You can run, jog or walk at your own pace, and the focus is on festive cheer rather than finish times.
What comes with an entry?
Your entry covers the race, a Santa suit and a bespoke medal. You pick up the suit at the start.
Is there anything for children?
Yes. There's a free kids' 400m race just before the main dash. Children can just turn up, and they all get a medal at the end.
Are there changing rooms and toilets?
There are no changing facilities, so come in your sports kit. There are portable toilets near the start line and four more toilet stops on the course at 200m, 1.5k, 3.5k and 4.5k.
Can I fundraise while I run?
Yes. Santas are invited to raise money for Rockinghorse Children's Charity, which supports sick and disabled children across Sussex. You can set up a JustGiving page or email the charity for fundraising tips.
More Christmas Events Near Brighton
More Christmas Events near Brighton
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.