Help us to create stronger communities across the UK. Consider taking part in one of our challenge events to push yourself and fundraise to support our transformational work
Thank you for considering taking part in a challenge event to fundraise for Volunteering Matters. Your support is crucial for us being able to deliver more project with communities to tackle some of the key challenges being faced.
Throughout the year we will have a variety of ways you can challenge yourself including half marathons, sky dives, walks. If we don’t have any opportunities available, why not get in touch and let us know what would interest you so we can add you to our waiting list.
Register your interest
If you already have a place on a challenge event, why not consider fundraising for Volunteering Matters. We’d love your support and would be able to help you along the way.
Winter challenge opportunities
All entries include a free Santa Suit to get you in the festive spirit!
Llandudno Santa Dash, 5km
30 November 2024
The 5km route takes you along the beautiful sea front of Llandudno North Shore. You can walk, jog or run. Participants will receive their own Santa suit to wear, a medal and the amazing feeling of joining in such a great event. Child race option available.
Cost to register: £15
Sponsorship target: £50
Liverpool Santa Dash, 5km
1 December 2024
Believed to be the UK’s biggest festive 5km fun run! Start the festive period off right and join thousands of people in the 20th anniversary of the event! Child race option available.
Cost to register: £20
Sponsorship target: £50
Saltford Santa Dash, 5km or 5 miles
1 December, 2024
Join the other Santa’s on the roads in Saltford for a great community event and vibrant atmosphere! Child race option available.
Cost to register: £15
Sponsorship target: £50
Santa in the City, 3.5km
4 & 5 December, 2024
Taking place in the early evening to embrace the festive spirit! Join in the fun, put on a Santa suit and run, jog or walk your way around the 3.5km route across central London. Child race option available.
Cost to register: £20
Sponsorship target: £50
Brighton Santa Dash, 5km
7 December, 2024
The Brighton Santa Dash is the most fun you can have in Brighton and it’s back for 2024. Walk, jog or run – it’s up to you! Child race option available.
Cost to register: £20
Sponsorship target: £50
Lingwood Santa Dash, 5km & 2km
8 December, 2024
With two races to choose from, the Lingwood Santa Dash is suitable for adults and families who are looking for some festive fun!
Cost to register: £10
Sponsorship target: £50
Edinburgh Santa and Elf Dash, 10km & 5km
22 December, 2024
Taking place around the trails of Cammo Nature Reserve in Northwest Edinburgh, you will run along riverside paths, through fields and around historic buildings. Enjoy this challenging but fun festive run and treat yourself to a hot chocolate at the finish area.
Cost to register: £15
Sponsorship target: £50
Virtual Santa Dash, 5km
Get into the festive running spirit by taking part in a virtual Santa Dash! All you need to do is run 5km anytime, anywhere before Christmas Day! Run on your own or with friends, we can also send you your own Santa suit for the occasion!
Cost to register: Free (Santa Suit = £10)
Sponsorship target: £50
Other opportunities in 2024
Dog Jog
By 31 December 2024
Dog Jog is a virtual challenge event hosted by JustRunning. There is no time limit, and a small minimum distance of 5k – just finish before the 31st of December, 2024! So, why not jog, walk or run with your four-legged friend while fundraising for Volunteering Matters, and show a commitment to social action across the UK!
Cost to register: £0
Sponsorship target: £50
Big Fun Run
By 31 December 2024
The Big Fun Run is a virtual challenge event hosted by JustRunning. There is no time limit, and no minimum distance – just finish before the 31st of December, 2024! So, why not jog, walk, or run and have fun while fundraising for Volunteering Matters, and show a commitment to social action across the UK!
Cost to register: £0
Sponsorship target: £50
Opportunities in 2025
Winter Walk Ultra Challenge
25 & 26 January 2025
A great event to walk off the Christmas celebrations, and to kick start your New Year fitness regime! There are Full Marathon, Half Marathon, 10K & 5km options– there’s a London Winter Walk for you! Join as an Individual or as a team and raise funds for Volunteering Matters along the way.
Cost to register: From £10 – £99
Sponsorship target: Varies
London Landmarks Half Marathon
6 April
The London Landmarks Half Marathon is a closed road, central London run and is the only half marathon to go through both the City of London and City of Westminster.
Cost to register: £25
Sponsorship target: £350
Brighton Marathon
6 April
The coastal, undulating course is perfect for runners looking for a quicker time or to take in the views. It is also renowned for its roaring crowd support!
Cost to register: £20
Sponsorship target: £450
Edinburgh Marathon Weekend
24-25 May
This is the UK’s second largest marathon, taking place over two days celebrating runners of all levels from junior races to marathons including the Hairy Haggis Relay – perfect for groups!
Cost to register: £5-£80
Sponsorship target: Varies
The Big Half
7 September
Organised by London Marathon Events, The Big Half is a vibrant, inclusive half marathon with a fun, festival atmosphere. The 13.1-mile course weaves through London from Tower Bridge to the iconic Cutty Sark in Greenwich.
Cost to register: £10
Sponsorship target: £300