Santa annually stops by Western Rowan County around the first Saturday in December. Since he needs to scout the area for his best route on Christmas Eve, Santa said, “We’ll have fun coming here on Dec. 2, whether it snows or not, because we will be doing great things for the needy.” Claus’ entourage always enjoys a gathering of good folks who are mostly nice and seldom naughty. He’ll get plenty of that as the 21^st Annual Santa’s 5K Run/ Walk for Charity takes to the rural farming area around the Millbridge Ruritan Building on Sloan Road. All proceeds benefit Rowan Helping Ministries, one of Santa’s favorite charities. He said, “Bring those canned goods. We will put them to good use afterwards as Rowan Helping Ministries disperses them.”

All participants get a long-sleeved dri-fit shirt and a pancake breakfast afterwards. Awards will be given in 14 age groups for both men and women. There is a half-mile fun run for kids 12 and under, all of which will get a finisher’s medal. The 5K starts at 9 a.m. with the fun run following at about 9:50 a.m. Top three overall and top masters runners get special awards.

Santa will lead the race while riding in a motorcycle sidecar and will help present awards and draw for door prizes after the event. He will be the official starter for the fun run.

Major sponsors for the event include the Millbridge Ruritans, Novant Health, Lil’ Shavers Wood Products and James River Equipment. Online registration continues through Friday evening at www.sportoften.com. A printable brochure is available at www.salisburyrowanrunners.org. More information is available by calling 704-310-6741.