The Stormont estate in east Belfast welcomed hundreds of participants to the scenic course, a much-loved highlight in the local running calendar.

The ninth annual Christmas Day Parkrun was a colourful affair, with Santa hats, elf ears, and holiday cheer on display as runners of all ages set off. Festive music echoed through the estate, accompanied by enthusiastic cheers from supporters lining the route.

Stormont was one of several Parkruns held across Northern Ireland on Christmas Day. The previous course record of 776 participants, set on New Year’s Day a few years ago, was surpassed as 788 runners crossed the finish line.

The unexpectedly large turnout meant organizers had to manually record the times of dozens of participants after running out of the 720-time tokens available.

Deirdre Fitzpatrick, a member of the Ormeau Runners club, described theevent as the perfect way to kick off Christmas.

“What better way to start Christmas than with a run alongside friends?”she said. “It’s incredible to see over 750 people here today, whichreflects how much running has grown in importance for all of us.”

Event director Alison Canning celebrated the record-breaking turnout,calling it a testament to the enduring appeal of running.

“This morning has been amazing,” she said. “We’ve had 788 finishers,surpassing our previous record of 776 on New Year’s Day. It’s wonderfulto see so many people choosing to start their Christmas morning withus.”

Canning added: “We’ve all put aside Christmas preparations becauserunning—and Parkrun in particular—is so popular. The atmosphere isfantastic, with all the costumes and Santa hats spreading the holiday spirit. It’s a great way to come together and celebrate the season.”