‘Tis the season for Christmas cheer in downtown Albany, including one of the most iconic events of the holiday season.

“Albany really likes to show up and show out,” volunteer Brittany Beyus said. “The number of people that show up in costumes to support a good cause, Albany is the place for that.”

What You Need To Know

  • This year marks the 16th year of the Santa Speedo Sprint

  • The event raised over $21,000 this year

  • Money will go towards the Damian Center in Albany and also the HIV and AIDS research with Albany Medical Center

It’s the 16th annual Santa Speedo Sprint. Right on Lark Street in the heart of the city, this event is truly one of a kind, and Beyus says the spirit is infectious.

“People really get into their outfits and if the songs are on the radio they will be singing the carols,” Beyus said. “It’s a lot of fun, there’s a lot of very real cheer.”

After taking a one-year hiatus due to COVID-19, residents' favorite celebration is back, and with it comes a good cause.

“All the money raised today goes towards the Damian Center in Albany and also the HIV and AIDS research with Albany Medical Center,” Beyus said.

Beyus is an educator on HIV and AIDS awareness in Albany, and says this fundraiser will go a long way for better resources.

“It’s breaking down the stigma, it’s getting treatments,” Beyus said. “It’s something that affects so many people’s lives and it’s not a death sentence anymore. It’s something that is treatable. Using this kind of awareness, if we can get a couple people from this event to get tested and help save those lives, it makes all the difference.”

While everyone enjoys catching up at the local bars, they are all here for one reason, the Speedo Sprint.

“Everyone coming together to run, it’s a really nice feeling to see everyone from the community coming together for something so important,” Beyus said.

Hundreds of sprinters took off down Lark Street after helping raise over $21,000 for HIV and AIDs resources.