Race of the Santas in Breckenridge this weekend

Does #246 Look Familiar?

It’s not easy being Santa at nearly 10,000 feet — or his wife, or reindeer. Nonetheless, Breckenridge attracts more than 500 Santas and Mrs. Clauses, or that is, people dressed as the big red guy and his wife and his elves, at Race of the Santas. Kids (dressed as reindeer or mini Santas, of course) run too. This year’s event takes place Dec. 3, along with the Lighting of Breckenridge. It’s one of many holiday events taking place throughout December.

Though the Race of the Santas only stretches for six blocks down Breckenridge’s Main Street, “everyone says it’s the toughest six blocks they have run,” said Sandy Metzger, events director for the Breckenridge Tourism Office. “Running at almost 10,000 feet in a Santa or holiday outfit adds to the challenge. There are a few people who sprint the race, but the majority jog or walk the course. They’re just out to have fun and raise money for a great cause.”

The cause: Breckenridge Outdoor Education Center, which provides life-changing outdoor learning experiences to people of all abilities. The race has raised more than $8,000 for past beneficiaries since the event began.