Santa Claus is coming to town — and he’s in a hurry to help a good cause!

Santa Hustle New England 5K & Half Marathon is partnering with Easter Seals Maine, the official 2014 beneficiary charity for the event planned for Nov. 23 at 7 a.m. at the Maine Mall in South Portland.

A perfect feel-good holiday story, this race is a visual treat for spectators and the participating runner dressed as Old St. Nick. Because even a very fit fit Santa needs a little help, elves will add holiday music, candy and food to the festivities.

Santa Hustle New England, presented by Bon-Ton, is proud to be working with Easter Seals Maine whose services help a wide range of people, from veterans and military families to early intervention for children on the autism spectrum.

Easter Seals Maine provides exceptional services to ensure that all people with disabilities or special needs and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities. For more information about or to donate to Easter Seals: http://www.easterseals.com/maine/who-we-are/.

Registration information

Runners/Santas can register at www.santahustle.com. Registration fees are $60 for the half marathon ($65 Nov. 9-21) and $45 ($50 Nov. 9-21) for the 5k.

All runners receive a Santa hat, beard and dri-fit hoodie to wear during the race. A course map is at www.hantahustle.com, but it doesn't include examples of some of the outrageous holiday signs that will line the course!

Participants can grab their Santa gear at Bon-Ton for pre-race packet pick up. After the race, participants can enjoy an epic after party at Jimmy The Greek’s.