About this Event
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Santa Speedo Run hits South End: Charlotte’s First Holiday Fun Run Debuts
December 6
Charlotte, NC — Santa suits, reindeer antlers, and yes, even Speedos, will take over
South End this December as Charlotte launches its first-ever Santa Speedo Fun Run.
The festive 21+ event blends costumes, cocktails, and community spirit to support
LGBTQ+ neighbors in need.
The celebration kicks off at 11:00 AM at Wooden Robot Brewery (South End) with a
“Mix & Jingle” pre-party featuring cocktails, a live DJ, and an energetic MC to get
everyone in the spirit. Participants will then strut a lighthearted, just-under-one-mile
route along the South End Light Rail Trail, filled with surprises and laughter along the
way. Bells will ring all the way back to Wooden Robot for a lively post-run celebration.
At the finish line, the fun continues with contests, prizes, surprise performances, and
plenty of time to mingle and toast the season. The event will go on rain or shine, but
organizers admit they’re secretly hoping for snow.
Proceeds benefit the Twirl Assistance Program (TAP), operated by the Twirl to the
World Foundation, recently named Non-Profit of the Year by the Carolinas LGBTQ+
Chamber of Commerce. TAP provides emergency financial assistance, mental health
services, and recovery support to Charlotte’s LGBTQ+ community.
In 2024, TAP helped 250 individuals and distributed more than $106,000 in aid. That
included financial assistance for 173 people, mental health support for 35, and 42
scholarships for recovery retreats. As of September 2025, TAP has already supported
275 individuals, showing how vital this program continues to be.
Registration is $35 and open now, with early bird perks and match days available.
Individuals, teams, and corporate groups are encouraged to sign up and create
peer-to-peer fundraising pages to boost their impact. Holiday attire of all kinds is
welcome—from Santa suits and elf outfits to reindeer ears and, for the bold, Speedos.
Prizes will be awarded for best costumes and top fundraisers.
“This is more than just a fun run,” said Zuni Johnson, Founder of Twirl to the World
Foundation. “It’s a chance to trade running shoes for reindeer antlers, show your holiday
spirit, and support neighbors in need during the most meaningful time of the year.”
“We want people to know this isn’t about being the fastest or the fittest,” added Jesse
Ryan, Event Lead and Twirl board member. “If you can strut in sequins, a Santa suit, or
a Speedo, you can strut for a cause. Everyone belongs out here with us.”
Event Details
What: Santa Speedo Fun Run – Charlotte (21+)
When: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Check-In & Mix & Jingle: 11:00 AM
Where: Wooden Robot Brewery, South End
Run: Just under 1 mile along the South End Light Rail Trail (about 30 minutes)
Finish & After-Party: Wooden Robot Brewery, South End
Registration: $35 minimum; peer-to-peer fundraising encouraged
Benefiting: Twirl to the World Foundation’s Twirl Assistance Program (TAP)
Entertainment: DJ, MC, cocktails, contests, and surprise performances
Weather: Rain or shine, though snow would be a nice touch
Every Dollar Helps! Net proceeds go directly to TAP.
To register, start a team, or learn more, visit
https://santa-speedo-run-charlotte-2025.raiselysite.com
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Wooden Robot Brewery, 1440 South Tryon Street, Charlotte, United States
USD 0.00
