Glasgow has seen plenty of unusual sights over the years, but thousands of Santas charging through the city takes some beating. Glasgow Santa Dash returns on Sunday 6 December, with up to 6,000 participants expected to bring a spectacular splash of red and white to the streets in support of Beatson Cancer Charity.

The festive 5K has become a popular fixture in Glasgow's Christmas calendar since its introduction in 2006. Over the years, the event has raised more than £400,000 for charitable causes, combining a little exercise with plenty of seasonal entertainment. This year's edition starts and finishes at Glasgow Green, with runners, joggers, walkers and families all encouraged to join the celebrations.

And there's absolutely no need to be a speedy Santa. The organisers have arranged separate starting waves, with stronger runners heading off earlier and families with young children, prams, scooters and dogs joining a later wave. Every registered participant aged five and over receives a Santa T-shirt, although those with costumes from previous years are encouraged to reuse them.

There will also be prizes for the best festive outfits, giving participants every excuse to get creative. Expect everything from traditional Santas to elves, reindeer and the occasional Jack Frost, with the emphasis firmly on enjoying the occasion rather than chasing finishing times.

Behind the fun is an important purpose. Beatson Cancer Charity supports patients and families affected by cancer, helping fund specialist services, research and improvements to cancer care. The Santa Dash gives Glasgow's running community another opportunity to contribute while enjoying one of the city's most colourful sporting traditions.

Entries are available for adults at £18 and children at £6, with under fives taking part free. Registration closes on 3 December, and runners can enter now through the runABC Race Hub.

Image courtesy runABC Creative for Beatson Cancer Charity.