We are delighted to announce that we will be hosting our own fundraising event ‘The Big Elf Fundraising Fun Run’ on Sunday 29th November 2026.
The Big Elf Run focuses on bringing people together, not only to fundraise, but to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing and our services in our local communties.
It promotes the benefits of physical activity in nature, connecting with people and doing something to help others. It’s an inclusive and non-competitive event, accessible and open to all ages and abilities, and of course, Christmas fancy dress is very much encouraged! Alongside our 5k, we have a fun 200m children’s run ‘the Dasher Dash’ for preschool and primary aged children.
The fundraising event will take place at the beautiful venue of The Forest Centre, in Marston Moretaine to help raise vital funds for Mind BLMK. All proceeds will help fund our key mental health and wellbeing services in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes. Each entrant will receive a victory medal and other festive goodies.
Registration coming soon. You can sign up to find out when tickets are released on Eventbrite here: The Big Elf Fun Run Tickets, Sunday, November 29 • 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Eventbrite
Frequently asked questions:
Is parking available?
Yes, parking will be available on a first come first served basis. There is limited parking so we recommend car sharing where possible. The forest centre has kindly agreed to free parking for participants, you must register your number plate at reception to avoid charges.
Will this race be timed?
No, this is an inclusive community run and won’t be timed. You can walk, skip, run or jog, the emphasis is on moving your body and getting out in nature, whilst raising funds for Mind BLMK. Participants are welcome to time their own run, however this won’t be tracked by us.
Where is the event held?
The Forest Centre
Station Road
Marston Moretaine
Bedfordshire
MK43 0PR
Do I need to fundraise?
As this is a charity event, we are hoping to raise much needed funds. We are encouraging those who can to fundraise at least £30. Although we do not expect everyone taking part to fundraise, every penny we raise goes towards our mental health and wellbeing services.
What is Early Elf discount?
There is a 10% saving applied to the first 40 tickets sold during our Early Elf discount sale which ends on the 30th September.
Will there be anything to do afterwards?
The Forest Centre is a great venue with a lovely cafe and small shop. There is an outdoor playground next to the cafe for children, as well as lots of beautiful walks around the Centre. We will have a stand at the event selling some fun, crafty festive goodies and a raffle.
Will there be a bag drop?
There will be no official bag drop. We will have a room where you are welcome to leave a small bag but this is at your own risk. We wouldn’t recommend leaving valuables unattended.
Can children take part?
Children can take part and there is a reduced entry cost for under 16s. You can run, walk, jog or skip- a fun family challenge to do together. Children must be accompanied by a parent/ guardian when taking part. Please note there is also Dasher Dash for primary and pre-school children.
Can I bring my dog?
Well behaved four legged friends are welcome on short handheld non-extendable leads. Please be mindful of other runners and users of the forest. Only one dog per participant and please don’t run with a pushchair and a dog at the same time. Please clean up any poo!
Is the route accessible?
The route is on a main cycle and walking route, some areas may be uneven in places as it is a trail. The surface is flat and gravel. There is step free access throughout the building, with automatic doors into Reception and a baby changing facility/ disabled toilet, with a lift to upstairs.
How can I reach the event using public transport?
Bus: Depending on where you are travelling from, you’ll need to look at the Central Bedfordshire, or the Bedford Borough websites. Train: The Forest Centre is approximately 12 minutes walk from Millbrook and Stewartby stations. Please see London Northwestern Railway about train times.
What will my money go towards?
At Mind BLMK we are dedicated to ensuring that those in our community have the best mental health. By participating and fundraising in Mental Elf 2025, you will help support the range of services we have across Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes.
If you would like to find more about the work we do, take a look at our impact report from 2023/2024:
*£1 of every ticket purchased goes to The Forest Centre to continue their environmental, social and economic regeneration.
Can I enter on the day?
We don’t offer on the day tickets and close entries the Wednesday before. This helps us to prep and get everything ready for the big day.
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