Hundreds of Santas hit the slopes for charity

STORY: Wearing Santa's trademark bright red suit with white trim, more than 250 skiers hit the slopes at the Sunday River resort to raise money for charity.

Music, laughter and ringing bells could be heard as the group cheerfully took to the slope on the chilly, sunny day.

Skiers had to wear a full Santa suit - including a red Santa hat with white trim, a red Santa jacket and pants, and a Santa beard - to take to the Sunday River Resort's Broadway trail.

Those in full costume received a lift ticket for a $25 USD (23.73 Euros) donation to The River Fund Maine nonprofit, that funds educational and recreational activities for children in western Maine.

This year's event raised $7,500 for local charities, according to the Portland Press Herald.