News and stories
Soto del Real prepares a Christmas of solidarity: running, walking and sharing for the Red Cross
The race on December 19th brings together sport, costumes and family participation, with the experience of two editions that raised 6,930 euros for the AECC.
Automatically translated from Spanish. Leer original en español
The Plaza de la Villa will host the 2026 Christmas Charity Race starting at 10:00 AM. There will be children's races, Nordic walking, a new 10.4-kilometer course, and a "zero bib" (number zero) to benefit the Red Cross.
Soto del Real has a date to kick off the Christmas season with running shoes. The Charity Christmas Run will return on Saturday, December 19, 2026, with races starting at 10:00 AM and the Plaza de la Villa serving as the meeting point. The Town Hall announces that all proceeds will be donated to the Red Cross. Running, Nordic walking, or donating a "zero bib" are all ways to participate.
A NEW ROUTE AND MANY WAYS TO PARTICIPATE
The main new feature will be the 10.4-kilometer circuit: a single lap through the Green Ring sports area, past the Hermitage, the Los Palancares Reservoir, and the River Park, before returning to the plaza. The 5.5-kilometer distance maintains the usual route and allows participants to choose between running or Nordic walking. The courses combine asphalt and dirt.
The morning also includes events for the little ones: 1,500 meters for children, 1,000 for pre-teens, and 500 for beginners. The latter two races are non-competitive. Costumes are once again part of the festivities, with prizes awarded for the most original Christmas outfits.
A TRADITION WITH SOLIDARITY RESULTS
The city's financial statements allow us to track the continuity of this event. In 2024, 300 runners participated, raising €2,750 for the Spanish Association Against Cancer. A year later, the City Council reported 400 registered runners and €4,180 donated to the same organization. Between the two editions, the total raised is €6,930, a figure that helps to understand the reach of this community gathering.
In 2026 the beneficiary organization changes: the current call for proposals is dedicated to the Red Cross. The amounts shown above correspond to campaigns that have already taken place; they are not a projection of what will be raised this December.
HOW TO JOIN THE RACE
Registration is done through YouEvent, where you can find information on the different race formats, schedules by category, and the rules. The registration form indicates 10:00 AM for adult races, 12:00 PM for children, 12:10 PM for pre-teens, and 12:20 PM for pre-teens. It's advisable to check the information before traveling and arrive with plenty of time. Those who wish to contribute without participating can choose bib number zero.
Information and registration:https://youevent.es/sport/Tabla_FichaEventoDeportivo.asp?id_competicion=8923
A MORNING TO SHARE SOTO
The event invites everyone to experience the town together: participate, accompany the children, or cheer them on at the finish line. The festive atmosphere adds color; the charitable cause gives meaning to every registration. Turismo Sierra Madrid is joining in to promote the event so that it also reaches those looking for an active activity in the Sierra.
