BUFFALO, N.Y. — Dozens of people donned Santa suits on Sunday morning a special holiday event, the Santa Stampede Fun Run/Walk.
The event, which was not a timed race, was held in North Buffalo. It began at Fleet Feet Buffalo, on Delaware Avenue, just south Hertel Avenue. Those who participated were encouraged to bring a new unwrapped toy as a donation to the Marines Toys for Tots.
Part of the proceeds from the event will also go to the organization.
The fun run/walk was one of many holiday-themed events during the weekend as Christmas soon approaches.
"We wanted to do something different, out of the norm," said Ellen Brenner-Boutillier, one of the Fleet Feet owners. "Getting people dressed up as Santas, it's definitely something unique and fun."
Brenner-Boutillier said the idea was to have an event that was more inclusive, where children and adults could have fun and remain active.
"This is the first time we've ever done the Santa Stampete," she said, "but it is something we do plan to have going forward."
More than 60 people participated in the event.
"The joy that comes out from the people that are watching from the people on the roads, in addition from all the people that are participating, it's a joy unlike anything else. It is a really remarkable thing," Ellen Brenner-Boutillier said.