- Categories:
- Cause
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- Activities
- Where:
- Ireland
- Date change rule:
- Every December 25
- Holiday emoji:
- 🏃♀️
GOAL Mile unites communities across Ireland and beyond every December 25, often on Christmas Day, for a charity run or walk. This cherished tradition raises vital funds for GOAL Global’s humanitarian efforts. Lace up your shoes, gather your family, and make a difference with every stride.
Want to sponsor GOAL Mile? Learn how
History of GOAL Mile
GOAL was founded in 1977 when founder John O’Shea decided to work towards mitigating poverty and helping out with the first responses to humanitarian crises. Today, the organization is active in over 60 countries. It also functions to help communities survive crises and supports their subsequent recovery. According to the organization, “GOAL believes in a world where poverty no longer exists, where vulnerable communities are resilient, where barriers to well-being are removed and where everyone has equal rights and opportunities.”
The GOAL Mile was first established in 1982 and has been a yearly tradition ever since. It is one of Ireland’s most popular annual events and is seen as a Christmas tradition for many Irish families. GOAL Mile events are run by individuals and communities across the nation.
The GOAL Mile helps the organization raise money and offers people across the globe the ability to actively participate in a Christmas tradition that embodies the holiday spirit of giving. The best part about the GOAL Mile is that it is widely accessible, regardless of physical location. There are over 150 GOAL Miles organized around Ireland. Don’t live in Ireland? You are free to join the mile virtually. The only thing that matters is your willingness to participate!
GOAL Mile timeline
O’Shea, the founder of GOAL, is born.
O’Shea visits India and witnesses childhood poverty.
GOAL is founded.
The first GOAL Mile is organized.
GOAL Mile FAQs
When is GOAL Mile?
In 2026, GOAL Mile takes place on Friday, December 25. This annual event is a cherished Irish Christmas tradition, bringing communities together for a charitable run or walk.
How many people participate in GOAL Mile?
Each year, tens of thousands of people across Ireland and globally participate in GOAL Mile events, making it one of the country’s largest annual fundraising traditions. The event’s widespread appeal underscores its cultural significance.
How much money does GOAL Mile raise?
Over its history, GOAL Mile has raised millions of euros for GOAL Global’s humanitarian programs. Annually, the event contributes hundreds of thousands of euros, directly supporting vulnerable communities worldwide.
What is GOAL Global's mission?
GOAL Global is an international humanitarian aid agency dedicated to alleviating the suffering of the poorest and most vulnerable people. They work in fragile states, responding to emergencies and building long-term community resilience.
How to Observe GOAL Mile
Run the mile
Do you want to participate? Either join a physical GOAL Mile or participate virtually.
Talk about it on social media
Help the GOAL Mile achieve a wider reach. Talk about it on social media.
Donate or volunteer
If you can offer funds or your time to GOAL, you can either donate to or volunteer with them! No amount or action is too small.
5 Fun Facts About Running
Annual worldwide sales
Over one billion pairs of running shoes are sold across the globe annually.
The fastest mile
The fastest mile was run by Hitcham El Guerrouj from Morocco.
Blood pressure
When we run, the human heart pumps blood at a pressure that would allow the blood to squirt 30 feet.
Faster animals
Rabbits, cats, and kangaroos are all faster than humans.
Slower animals
Pigs, squirrels, and elephants run slower than humans.
Why GOAL Mile is Important
It’s a lovely tradition
The GOAL Mile is a Christmas tradition for many families. We think it’s a wonderful tradition to have!
It encourages the spirit of giving
Christmas is all about the joy of giving. The GOAL Mile is a perfect reminder of that.
It encourages movement
Christmas is often a sedentary holiday. The GOAL Mile encourages some, admittedly rare, push to move your body during the holidays.
GOAL Mile dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | December 25 | Friday |
| 2027 | December 25 | Saturday |
| 2028 | December 25 | Monday |
| 2029 | December 25 | Tuesday |
| 2030 | December 25 | Wednesday |
