The miserable weather didn’t stop runners from participating in the annual Cupid’s Undie Run event Saturday, Feb. 14. In fact, at this event, discomfort was sort of the point.
Since 2014, Kansas City has been one of the hosts to the event deemed “the pantless party with a purpose.” The run raises money for neurofibromatosis, commonly referred to as NF — a group of genetic disorders that causes skin pigmentation and tumors on nerve tissue. The event is organized by the Children’s Tumor Foundation, which supports research on NF.
This year’s event started off with a Valentine’s Day-themed party at Q Kansas City, 504 Westport Road. It included an open bar, photo ops, and people dressed down to their underwear. Some of the run participants were dressed wearing just their underwear, socks and sneakers for the 50-degree, rainy weather.
Participants in the 2026 Cupid’s Undie Run in Kansas City party at Q Kansas City, 504 Westport Road, prior to the run.
Participants in the 2026 Cupid’s Undie Run in Kansas City party at Q Kansas City, 504 Westport Road, prior to the run.
There was more socializing, drinking and dancing going on than stretching and preparing for a run. Many people didn’t care about the rain on Valentine’s Day. In fact, some of them walked in with only their briefs and shoes.
On paper, this was a charity event that included exercising. In reality, the undie run was giving people something to laugh about and be silly with, all while doing it for a good cause.