"Thousands took part in a new edition of Madrid’s most festive race, the 'Santa Claus Run,' on Sunday, setting a participation record. Footage shows streets filled with runners donning red and white Santa costumes and children dressed as green elves as amid clouds of mock snow in the wet Spanish capital. "With all our energy because the year is coming to an end. We have to take advantage of Father Christmas to let out all that heat we have inside. And start 2026 with strength and high spirits," said one of the runners. The race drew 10,000 runners according to media reports citing the organisers. "It's a big challenge because last year, for example, my trousers ripped. But it's fun, really enjoyable and the atmosphere is great," another runner admitted. The 4.5-kilometre race, beyond its festive appeal, retained a charitable focus, with one euro from each entry fee donated to the Spanish Red Cross’s 'Early Childhood' project. The initiative supports socially vulnerable families with children aged 0 to 6 by providing resources and assistance to parents and grandparents acting as carers."