In Budapest, dozens of participants, half-naked and dressed as Santa Claus, braved the cold weather during a charity run. The event, the Budapest Santa Speedo Run, was held for the 21st time this year.
On December 15, participants ran through the city center in red underwear and Santa hats in near-zero temperatures. Videos shared on social media showed them running, cheering, and chanting "ho-ho-ho" as they entertained locals and tourists. They made several stops during the run to perform exercises, jumps, and dances.
According to organizers, the event's participation fees are donated to charity. This year, the money raised will be donated to a foundation that supports families of children with Prader-Willi syndrome. It is a rare genetic disease characterized by excessive appetite.
Participants said that the movement, singing, and general enthusiasm helped them overcome the cold and that they didn't feel it. The idea for the event came after its founder saw a similar run in Boston, USA, and decided to bring the tradition to Budapest.
Runners braved the freezing cold in Budapest’s annual Half-Naked Santa Run for charity pic.twitter.com/5aG9NJupWZ
— Reuters (@Reuters) December 16, 2025