NORTHAMPTON — Organizers of the annual Hot Chocolate Run for Safe Passage said they’re seeing an uptick in interested fundraisers for this year’s event, which takes place on Sunday.
Some 6,000 runners are expected to participate in the 13th annual event starting at 9 a.m. at Northampton Brewery. The run has already raised $400,000 since September. Last year, the run brought in a record $485,000.
“Each year has been higher than the previous,” said Marianne Winters, executive director of Safe Passage, of the event known for wacky costumes and delicious hot chocolate.
The route runs from the brewery to Main Street and then up around Smith College. The 2-mile walk begins at 9 a.m., the 5k fun run begins at 9:30 a.m. and the 5k road race begins at 10:15 a.m.
Everyone who runs pays a $30 registration fee that goes toward the pool, but runners also have the option of competing to raise funds for the benefit for Safe Passage, a nonprofit devoted to addressing domestic violence.
“A lot of people are concerned about people who are marginalized and oppressed and this gives them an opportunity to recommit to social justice,” Winters said.
Winters said the race cannot accommodate any more runners, but spectators interested in giving can contribute during the event. Donations can also be made online at hotchocolaterun.com, and checks can be sent by mail to 43 Center St., Suite 304, Northampton, MA 01060.
Amanda Drane can be contacted at adrane@gazettenet.com.