Sunday morning saw Barshaw Park transformed into a sea of tinsel, glitter, and people who definitely did not check the weather forecast before leaving the house. Yes — the annual Jingle Bell Run by Active Communities was back, and more festive than ever!
This year came with a new twist: the debut of the brand-new 1-mile run. It was an instant hit, especially with those who felt the 1K was too short but the 3K was “absolutely not happening before I’ve had a mince pie.”
Families, speedy wee elves, and several runners who looked like they’d been dressed by over-enthusiastic toddlers all took to the paths. Participants ranged from serious athletes to people who clearly came for nothing more than “a gentle festive stroll and maybe a hot chocolate at the end.”
One local dad in a full inflatable Santa costume reported jokingly he “nearly took off with a strong gust of wind, only to be saved by reindeer ” while a group of elves attempted a coordinated dance warm-up that resembled organised chaos — but extremely festive organised chaos.
With bells jingling, children sprinting like they were late for Santa’s workshop shift, and adults pretending they weren’t already out of breath by the first corner, the 2026 Jingle Bell Run was a perfect mix of holiday spirit and light athletic suffering.
Once again, Barshaw Park delivered the goods: laughter, cheer, and the annual reminder that running is always more fun when you’re dressed as something ridiculous.
3K photographs at https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCD6bR
1K photographs at https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCD6f3
Fun run photographs at https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCDawf
Paisley Photographs 