Skip to content

Lose the Pants, Keep the Cause

Cupid’s Undie Run returns to Seattle to raise funds for neurofibromatosis research

By Sarah Stackhouse January 28, 2025

A group of people dressed in minimal sports attire pose excitedly in a snowy urban street, eager to embrace the chill for a good cause.
Photo courtesy of Cupid’s Undie Run Seattle

When was the last time you had that dream where you’re at work or school and suddenly realize you’re not wearing pants? Now imagine doing it in real life — but for a good cause.

Cupid’s Undie Run returns to Seattle on Feb. 8. This mile-long, pantsless party invites participants to strip down to their undies while raising money for the Children’s Tumor Foundation (CTF). The event supports research and raises awareness for neurofibromatosis (NF), a group of genetic disorders that cause tumors to grow on nerves and throughout the body.

Amidst a snowy backdrop, people stand sporting vibrant leggings and socks. One person's red socks boldly declare "WITH STUPID." This whimsical group seems to embrace the motto, "Lose the Pants," as they revel in their colorful, carefree attire.

The day kicks off at noon in Fremont at The Dock Sports Bar & Grill (1102 N 34th St.) with music, drinks, and mingling. At 2 p.m., runners hit the streets, followed by a dance party featuring prizes for top fundraisers and best costumes. That’s right, creativity is encouraged when it comes to your pantless attire. 

So far, Seattle participants have raised $5,500 toward the city’s $20,000 goal. Teams like “Team Heimeken” have contributed more than $1,300. The cost to run is $40. Still on the fence? Registration is always open, even on the day of the race. Walk-ins are welcome and can pay the registration fee at the door.

NF affects 1 in 2,000 births worldwide — about 4 million people — and can lead to blindness, deafness, learning challenges, and even cancer. According to organizers, the goal of running in underwear is to show solidarity with those living with NF. “We run in our undies because those affected by NF can’t cover up their tumors. They can’t put on clothes to feel more comfortable, so why should we?”

Since its start in Washington, D.C., in 2010, Cupid’s Undie Run has grown nationally with events in 34 cities, including Boston, Los Angeles, and New York. Participants have raised more than $21.7 million, with 100% of net proceeds funding NF research. Cupid’s Undie Run first came to Seattle in 2013.

A large group of people participating in the "Lose the Pants" cause poses together under a bridge, proudly showcasing their colorful underwear next to a large stone sculpture.

Oh, and the weather on the day of the run? Rain and snow showers are in the forecast, with a high of 43 degrees. It takes some serious dedication (and a good sense of humor) to brave those temps in your undies, but these runners are showing up for an incredible cause. Keep moving, and you’ve got this!

Learn more, register, or donate here.

Follow Us

Fave Five: Little Winter Escapes

Fave Five: Little Winter Escapes

Places to go when the weather turns cold.

Winter is a time to reset. The holidays vanish overnight, leaving frigid mornings and fewer lights in the windows. And it’s almost as if the sun has a lampshade over it—which I don’t mind. We all need a break from the bright overheads. Still, we are fighting the urge to hibernate. Maybe that means tea…

Seattle Businesses Rally Support for Minneapolis Ahead of National Shutdown

Seattle Businesses Rally Support for Minneapolis Ahead of National Shutdown

More than 30 local businesses are donating proceeds to help Minneapolis businesses close this Friday in solidarity with a nationwide economic blackout.

If you’re looking for something concrete to do right now, this is it: eat out, grab coffee, or shop local on Thursday, Jan. 29. Across Seattle, dozens of businesses are turning an ordinary day of commerce into a way to support Minneapolis businesses that plan to close on Friday, Jan. 30 as part of a…

When the News Feels Like Too Much

When the News Feels Like Too Much

A moment to pause and take care of ourselves right now.

The recent news out of Minneapolis has been hard to watch. No matter where you live, it’s heavy and destabilizing. Staying engaged when things start to feel hopeless—and when it feels like there’s nothing you can do—is really difficult. At our staff meeting today, we talked about how many of us are feeling this same…

Thanks, Seattle

Thanks, Seattle

A note of gratitude to everyone who supports our work.

As we head into the holiday, we’re feeling grateful for everyone who makes Seattle magazine what it is. To our readers and subscribers, thank you for showing up for local stories, sharing them, and reminding us why this city is worth covering with care. To our advertisers, partners, and the many PR teams who help…