Santa Fun Run 2026
The 17th annual Santa Fun Run occurs in Colchester's Castle Park, offering 2.5km and 5km routes. The event raises funds for the Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity.
What to Expect
Annual festive fun run for charity.
Event Details
Duration
Event starts at 10:00 AM
Ages
All ages welcome, under 5s go free! Under 16’s must be accompanied by a participating adult.
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity
Food & Drink
One 500ml sealed bottle of water per person is permitted and can be refilled in the venue. No external food or drink allowed, except for specific dietary requirements.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, runners, charity supporters
Vibe
Festive, energetic, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Car parking charges apply at all car parks. Parking at Charter Hall (where Castle Park is situated) uses mipermit operator. Location number: 737941. Payment can be made via app, SMS, or phone.
- Accessibility: All venues are Disability Discrimination Act DDA compliant. Charter Hall offers a hearing loop system and wheelchair access. Please contact the venue for more details.
- Pets: No pets allowed
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to collect your festive wear and get settled before the 10 AM start time, especially if you need to pick up a Santa hat for under 5s.
- Consider the fundraising aspect: aim for the £50 target for adults to maximize your impact for the Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity.
- If bringing children under 16, ensure an adult is participating with them, as they must be accompanied.
- Check the specific event page for any updates on the box office provider, as they are transitioning to a new system.
- Dress in layers, as December weather can be unpredictable, and wear comfortable shoes suitable for running or walking.
Special Events & Promotions
- Fundraising for Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity
- Festive event wear included
- Limited edition medal upon completion
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the entry fee?
The entry fee includes festive event wear (a Santa hat for those under 5) and a medal upon completion of the run.
Can I bring my own food and drink?
No external food or drink is allowed, with the exception of one 500ml sealed bottle of water per person, which can be refilled. Small amounts of food for specific dietary needs are also permitted.
What are the fundraising goals?
The suggested fundraising target for adults is £50, and for children, it's as much as they can raise. Funds support the Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity.
Are there any age restrictions?
All ages are welcome, and children under 5 participate for free. However, participants under 16 must be accompanied by a participating adult.
What happens if the event is cancelled?
In the event of cancellation, customers are entitled to a full refund, minus any transaction or refund processing costs.
More Christmas Events near Colchester
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.