November 17, 2025 — Cutchogue, N.Y. — The Cutchogue Fire Department is once again inviting the community to lace up their running shoes and lend a helping hand with the return of its beloved Stuff the Sleigh 5K Race and Walk, set for Sunday, December 7. Now in its 13th year, the annual event has become a cherished holiday tradition, combining fitness, family fun, and charitable giving.

Proceeds from the race benefit the Cutchogue Fire Department Scholarship Fund and other charitable organizations supported by the department, including the American Parkinson’s Disease Association and firefighter cancer support groups. The event also serves as a major holiday toy drive, with participants encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to help “stuff the sleigh” for families in need during the Christmas season.

Festivities begin with a children’s fun run, allowing younger participants to enjoy a shortened course that finishes at the firehouse, where Santa Claus will be waiting to greet them. The main 5K race and walk will start at 10 a.m. in front of the firehouse and follow a scenic route through New Suffolk before returning to the firehouse for a post-race reception featuring awards, clam chowder, and refreshments.

Organizers hope to once again fill the sleigh with hundreds of donated toys while bringing together runners, walkers, families, and supporters from across the North Fork. The officers and members of the Cutchogue Fire Department expressed their gratitude for the continued community support and said they look forward to welcoming participants back for another successful and festive race day.