More than 300 red-suited Santas took to the slopes at a foggy Sunday River ski resort in western Maine in the US to raise money for charity.

The annual event has been held for more than 20 years, except for once during the pandemic. The skiing Santas participate in full costume, including white beards and red hats.

Skiing Santas
Skiers dressed as Santa Claus at the Sunday River ski resort in Newry, Maine (Robert F Bukaty/PA)

The event’s rules specifically state the hat must bear a white pompom.

The annual event serves as a festive kick-off to both the holiday season and the skiing season. It raises money for The River Fund Maine, an education charity.

Skiing Santas
The annual Santa Sunday fundraiser raises money for local charities (Robert F Bukaty/AP)

This year’s event raised 8,000 dollars (£6,375), Sunday River representatives said.

“Each year, the kindness of Santa Sunday participants contributes to creating impactful educational opportunities for our local students,” said Sunday River Resort president Dana Bullen.