Last night, London witnessed an extraordinary spectacle as 3,000 Santas transformed the city’s streets into a sea of festive fundraising magic. The biggest ever Santa in the City event turned heads and warmed hearts, with runners charging through the city’s iconic landmarks to raise funds for over 50 charities.
This year awareness of sarcoma, a group of rare cancers took centre stage as charity Sarcoma UK was announced as the official partner for Santa in the City 2024.
The epic run saw a massive wave of red-suited participants starting at St Paul’s Cathedral, weaving a 4.5 km route past the River Thames, Millennium Bridge, and Tower Bridge. But the excitement isn’t over – runners have another chance to join tonight!
Event organiser Rebecca Milburn promises an equally spectacular show this evening. “If you missed last night’s incredible display, you have another opportunity to be part of this magical moment,” she said. “Tonight, we’ll once again transform London with 3,000 Santas bringing hope and support to crucial charitable causes.”
Last night a sea of red suits and white beards created a dazzling spectacle for onlookers. Starting at 7.00 PM at the iconic St Paul’s Cathedral, the Santas embarked on a 4.5 km journey, weaving their way past landmarks like the River Thames, Millennium Bridge, and Tower Bridge.
Rebecca said: “Santa in the City started nine years ago with 450 Santas and has grown to become the incredible spectacle it is now. This is more than just a run – it’s a community coming together to make a difference. Imagine 3,000 Santas charging through London, each carrying hope and support for causes close to their hearts. This year the spotlight is on the rare cancer, sarcoma which accounts for less than 1% of all cancer diagnoses. We want to use the power of Christmas spirit and the allure of thousands of Santas to shine a light on this important cause. With every step they take, those Santas running for Sarcoma UK will support life-saving research and crucial care for sarcoma patients.”
Sarcoma UK has invested more than £8M in 98 projects to improve the diagnosis and treatment of sarcoma. It also runs a support line for those affected by it. Sarcoma UK’s Events Manager Louisa Morgan said: “With 15 people being diagnosed with sarcoma every day in the UK, we urgently need to raise awareness of this devastating cancer and to transform that awareness into action. Every Santa running for Sarcoma UK through London’s streets is more than just a runner – they’re a beacon of hope for the 5,300 people diagnosed with sarcoma each year and their families who are desperate for more research and better treatments. These festive runners aren’t just wearing red suits; they’re wearing the colours of courage, research, and potential life-saving breakthroughs. We’re turning Christmas cheer into a powerful platform for change.”
Sarcoma, which forms in the bones and soft tissues is relatively unknown, making events like Santa in the City crucial for sparking conversations and driving change.
The National Brain Appeal has also joined as the official accessibility partner, ensuring the event is inclusive and welcoming to all.
The organisers are urging the public to get involved, by coming out tonight, the final night, to cheer on the runners. Spectators are encouraged to share their experiences on social media using the hashtag #santainthecity.
Rebecca said: “This is a truly incredible event which brings so much joy and awareness to the city, so come out and join us tonight”.
