The Sevierville Santa Hustle focuses on family fun. (The Herald/ Submitted Photo)

Following the very successful inaugural event in 2011, the Santa Hustle is returning to the Wilderness at the Smokies resort Dec. 9  at 8 a.m.

This year’s event promises to bring even more Santa beards and hats to the parkway, with nearly 3,000 participants expected, doubling the size of last year’s race.

The Santa Hustle is a half marathon and 5k run/walk with participants in the holiday-themed race receiving a free Santa hat, beard and a customized shirt to wear while competing.

It is a part of the fast-growing Santa Hustle series, that continues to expand and will travel to seven different locations around the country this winter.

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