Santa Run Food Drive

2025 Santa Run 


North County Regional Fire Authority & IAFF Local 3438 Present Annual Santa Run Food Drive 

December 5–16, 2025 

“Helping Santa Spread Joy and Hope!” 

Arlington & Stanwood, WA — The holiday season is here, and North County Regional Fire Authority, in partnership with IAFF Local 3438, is proud to kick off its beloved Annual Santa Run Food Drive, happening December 5–16. This cherished tradition brings firefighters, their families, and friends together to escort Santa—riding in style on a fire engine—through neighborhoods in Arlington and Stanwood, spreading holiday cheer while collecting food and monetary donations for local community food banks. 

Last year, thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we collected 17,044 pounds of food to help families in need. This year, we’re aiming even higher! 

New for 2025: Santa Pit Stops 

To make the event more efficient and inclusive, we’ve added designated “Santa Pit Stops” along several routes. These gathering points encourage neighbors to rally together, making it easier for Santa and his helpers to keep the run moving smoothly—and hopefully expand to even more neighborhoods in the future. 

How to Participate 

  • Watch for Santa and his firefighter escort in your neighborhood between December 5–16. 
  • Bring non-perishable food items or monetary donations to support Arlington and Stanwood community food banks. 
  • Visit our website for route details and Santa Pit Stop locations: 

https://www.northcountyfireems.com/community-programs/annual-santa-run 

Join us in making this holiday season brighter for families in need. Together, we can make a difference!