Cupid’s Undie Run Returns to Fenway Park

The fourth annual fundraiser will once see runners dashing by in their Valentine's Day best.

Cupid's Undie Run

Photo by Sarah Fisher

Less is more at the fourth annual Cupid’s Undie Run, a mobile extravaganza of near-nudity, and all for a good cause. On February 18, hundreds of runners will take to the streets in their finest undergarments, accented with tutus, capes, and all manner of other accessories—red and pink especially encouraged. The run give Bostonians a chance to let loose and get in the Valentine’s Day spirit, but also raises money for the Children’s Tumor Foundation, with the proceeds going toward Neurofibromatosis research.

Starting at the House of Blues, the runners will follow a mile-long route inside Fenway Park. But don’t expect them to stay there for long. The event continues with an after party at Lansdowne Pub, complete with an open bar for top fundraising teams. As race director Lindsey Norse assures us, it’s not so much a run as a big party with a run happening in the middle of it.

And it makes a big impact. Last year the event raised $260,000 with nearly 1,000 participants, doubling in size from their start in 2014. Boston joins 46 other cities around the globe, who altogether raised $3.5 million last year. Many participants take part with a team of family or friends, joining forces to compete for special prizes awarded to those who fundraise the greatest amount.

“It’s a feel good, friendly, inspirational atmosphere,” Norse says. “It not only raises money, but it’s just such a fun event.”

If stripped-down sprinting isn’t quite your style, you are still welcome to go cheer on the runners and partake in the festivities. But if you don’t mind braving the cold—or putting on your beer jacket—then ditch the pants and take your mark.

Saturday, February 18, 12–4 p.m., House of Blues, 15 Lansdowne St., Boston, cupidsundierun.org.