About the Run

With 2025 as our inaugural year, we are excited to launch an event where all are welcome to spend a December day running through the heart of South End Charlotte, clad in nothing more than Santa hats, speedos and other holiday attire. 

The run supports Twirl to the World Foundation, Carolinas LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce Non-Profit of the Year, dedicated to supporting Charlotte LGBT+ individuals in need through our Twirl Assistance Program (TAP).

In 2024, TAP provided critical support to 250 LGBTQ+ individuals, including 173 receiving financial assistance and 35 accessing mental health services, while also funding 42 scholarships for a sobriety and recovery retreat. The organization distributed more than $106,200 in aid, including emergency assistance, mental health services, and substance abuse support.

In the first six months of 2025, TAP has already supported 185 LGBTQ+ individuals! The need is great so we need a greater means of fundraising!

Introducing, the Santa Speedo Run – Charlotte!

Get Started

Ho ho ho! You have questions. We have answers. Well, most of the answers to your most frequently asked questions are on the FAQ page.

Don’t see your answer? Don’t panic.

Email us your question to speedorun@twirltotheworld.org and a friendly Elf will get in touch with you.

Join the Run

Register for the event today for $35! Prices increase on Monday, December 1.

Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025. 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

  • 11 am: Sign-in @ TBD
  • 1 pm: 1-mile run through South End
  • 1:30 pm: Awards, entertainment and door prizes!

STEP 1: REGISTER ONLINE

Visit our registration page to Register as a participant. This includes a $35 registration fee until the week of the event. Whether you plan to participate individually or as a team, this is your first step. 

STEP 2: START YOUR FUNDRAISING PAGE

Create your fundraising page for the event via the Raisely platform.

In addition to supporting your fundraising efforts, your Raisely account is what enables you to start or join a team. 

STEP 3: PLAN YOUR OUTFIT

Whether you plan on running in a speedo, holiday onesie, santa outfit, elf in drag, or coordinated group costume = be creative!

STEP 4: KEEP FUNDRAISING

Make a list of friends and family you can ask for support. Be sure to post photos of your team or individual outfits online to encourage donations from your contacts.