For many, the annual Kerstcorrida in Deerlijk is the sporting highlight of the year, with the 43rd edition scheduled for December 19 and 20. However, the event is more than just a running race. According to Alain Himpe, chairman of the organizing committee, and Stijn Eeckhout, director of De KIM and De SAM, the Kerstcorrida has become a widely supported event that gets the entire community of Deerlijk moving.
The competitive race remains the heart of the Kerstcorrida, attracting both enthusiastic runners and participants who come for the atmosphere. On Saturday, participants can also join a walk. "You can really feel in the months leading up to it that the Kerstcorrida is alive in Deerlijk," says Alain Himpe. "For some, this is the main goal they are working towards." The organizers aim for a broad audience, from seasoned runners to those who only put on their running shoes once a year.
Since the 40th edition, the Kerstcorrida has expanded into a full weekend event, featuring not only races but also walks, entertainment, and more opportunities for social interaction. "Our intention is for people to get outside and meet each other during the dark winter period," explains Stijn Eeckhout. Music and entertainment along the course create atmosphere, and runners pass through the town center multiple times, where supporters cheer them on.
Local associations, such as youth movements and the Red Cross, have the opportunity to set up stands along the course, contributing to the atmosphere, mobilizing their supporters, and earning funds for their own activities. The local hospitality sector also participates enthusiastically, which Alain Himpe notes "only increases the support base." This makes it truly an event for the whole of Deerlijk.
The Kerstcorrida originally started at the local school for special primary education. "Maurice Deseyn, the then-director of De KIM, didn't want to organize a classic raffle or barbecue," says Alain Himpe. "He opted for a running race. What started small grew edition after edition. But the connection with the schools has always remained. The proceeds still mainly go to De KIM and De SAM, and during the Happy Together Run, some of their students also participate."
This financial boost helps in purchasing less obvious items. "Think of a trampoline, bicycles, and a minibus for outings," illustrates Stijn Eeckhout. "We always try to choose something that benefits as many students as possible. This makes it very concrete what everyone is running, helping, and sponsoring for. The Kerstcorrida is therefore not only a sporting highlight but also a special fundraising event for our schools."
Behind this warm weekend lies a solid organization. "The organizing committee consists of about 25 people," explains Stijn Eeckhout. "They are divided into various working groups focusing on aspects like the course, communication, and entertainment. During the weekend itself, many staff members from both our schools also lend a hand. In total, around 250 volunteers contribute, for whom we are very grateful."
Over the years, the approach has become more professional. Safety, timing, and capacity require much more preparation today. "That's precisely why we set a maximum number of participants," says Alain Himpe. "Being sold out is great, but it must remain safe and enjoyable for runners and visitors alike."
With 42 previous editions, there's naturally a wealth of stories. The 26th edition had to be canceled due to heavy snowfall. A year later, snow fell again, but the race went ahead and was promptly dubbed the 'snow corrida'. During the pandemic, an alternative was devised where participants ran their own routes, giving birth to the 'coronida'. The 40th edition was a grand celebration, and last year the event was completely sold out. This exemplifies the Kerstcorrida for Alain Himpe: "We continuously seek ways to get people moving and bring them together. And that is precisely where our greatest strength still lies after 43 editions."
The Kerstcorrida Deerlijk takes place on Saturday, December 19, and Sunday, December 20, 2026. You can run, walk, or come to support. Registration is open via www.kerstcorrida.be.
