A program that provides a safe space for youth in Niagara-on-the-Lake will be the beneficiary of Niagara’s charitable holiday spirit, as a slew of St. Nicks – and a large number of elves – converge on Simcoe Park on Dec. 17.

Hundreds of participants are expected to turn out for the Elf and Santa Run with $5 for each entry going to the NOTL Youth Collective, a program for kids from grades 6 to 12.

Last year’s race raised more than $5,500 for the collective. The funds were used to offset the cost of babysitter and first aid certification programs.

“This support helped certify over 30 new babysitters and provided more than 50 youth with the first aid certification” said Caroline Polgrabia, a member of the youth collective and a sales agent with NOTL Realty.

NOTL Realty is the title sponsor for the event, which is being staged by VR Pro, a race and event management company.

So far, more than $1,900 has been raised heading into next month’s event.

There are two races – a 1K elf race and a 5K Santa race. Participants will be treated to a post-race breakfast catered by the Irish Harp Pub. Runners will hit the road at 10 a.m.

“We are looking forward to welcoming everyone back to the race and to working with all of the great local businesses as well as our charity,”  said Kelly Arnott, VR Pro co-founder and race director.   

Registration for the 5K is $70, including a Santa suit and $55 with no suit. The entry fee for the kids’ 1K elf run is $25. Runners can also take part in the 5K virtually (with a suit) for $50.

There are also special rates for group entries of four people or more. All runners will receive a goodie bag.

More information is available at raceroster.com/events/2023/71914/notl-santa-and-elf-run.