You may have seen multiple Santas and people in festive costumes running along the canal Saturday for the 35th annual Santa Shuffle, a fun run that raises money for the Salvation Army. More than 900 people, many in costumes, took part in the one kilometre and five kilometre runs starting at Lansdowne Park. For Gail and Quinn Stokes, it’s a new mother-son tradition. “We are doing it for the fun of it, getting dressed up on a wintry day and start off the holiday season,” Gail said. Quinn says his favourite part of the event is the costumes. “The marathons that I do are a lot more serious so seeing kind of just a fun, goofy, and spirited run is a blast,” he said. The festive costumes were on full display and runners could be spotted dressed up as the Grinch, the Grinch’s dog Max, elves and more. “I love to be in the Christmas spirit and it’s a really great opportunity to support the community, support people in need at Christmas,” said Dana Bell, who was doing the Santa Shuffle with friends. “This is the first time I’m dressing as an elf to run a five kilometre.” Chris Libecap was doing the run with Bell and their friends. “After the last couple days, it’s been so cold, but it should be a fun time,” said Libecap. “Looking forward to the hot chocolate in the market afterwards. Happy holidays and hope everyone has a good rest of 2025.” For some, the Santa Shuffle is a longstanding tradition. Greta Chase says she’s been doing the Santa Shuffle for 20 years. “It’s a good race,” said Chase. “It’s a good course and the people, just all of that, it’s a feel good run.” More than 900 people took part in the Santa Shuffle, which raises money for the Salvation Army. “The money raised in Ottawa specifically helps to support the Salvation Army Bethany Hope Centre in Ottawa,” said Stacey Alexander, a spokesperson for the Bethany Hope Centre and organizer of the event. “We’re a community resource center for pregnant and parenting youth.” Funds raised at the event will help with food security, education, employment, and child development parent support. “They do so much work in our community that I don’t think people realize what they’re involved in many, many aspects,” said Catherine Gillingham, a runner at the event. “They’re always there in a crisis for everybody.” Gillingham was running with her friend Paula Croucher and they both say the festive spirit on the event brings them joy. “I’m here to celebrate the Christmas spirit and to also participate with the Salvation Army,” said Croucher. “They do a lot of really, really good work and it’s really festive and fun to come out and get some exercise and do something for a good cause.” Organizers say participants don’t have to be avid runners to take part because the run is mostly for fun and times aren’t officially recorded, but there is a clock running for those who would like to time themselves.
