The 20th anniversary of the Liverpool Santa Dash is set to take place on Sunday, 1 December 2024, with organisers hoping to attract record numbers to the city’s most festive 5K event. The annual run, hosted by BTR Liverpool, is renowned for transforming the city’s streets into a sea of red, blue, and mini Santas, and is considered the official start of Christmas in Liverpool.
Last year, 6,100 people took part, the largest turnout since 2018, and this year is already on track to break records, with 1,500 participants registered. The event, now a staple of Liverpool’s festive calendar, encourages Santas of all ages and abilities to walk, jog, or run through the city centre, including the Royal Albert Dock and a grand finish at Liverpool Town Hall, complete with festive characters and ‘real’ snow.
The event officially launched its 2024 edition at Gravity MAX in Liverpool ONE, where a group of Santas swapped their sleighs for go-karts and their toy sacks for crazy golf, as they took a well-earned break from their Christmas preparations. The launch event also featured Claire Bear, the mascot for Claire House Children’s Hospice, the official charity partner of this year’s Santa Dash.
A Fun-Filled Charity Event
Claire House Children’s Hospice is aiming to raise £35,000 through the event to support its care for seriously and terminally ill children across Liverpool and surrounding areas. Mark Pearson, Events Fundraising Manager at Claire House, said: “We’re thrilled to be the official charity partner for this year’s Santa Dash. The funds raised will help our care team continue their work in the hospice, on hospital wards, and in the community. We’re encouraging participants to raise £120 or more in sponsorship, which will make a huge difference to the children and families we support.”
Santas who sign up to run for Claire House can participate for free by committing to the £120 fundraising target. The charity hopes to see as many supporters as possible joining its Santa Dash team.
Community Spirit and Festive Cheer
In Demand Radio is this year’s official media partner, with presenter Claire Simmo broadcasting live from the event. Simmo said: “We’re excited to bring the fun and energy of the Santa Dash to our listeners. It’s one of Liverpool’s most beloved events, and we can’t wait to celebrate with the community while supporting such a fantastic cause.”
St Johns Shopping Centre will once again host the Santa Dash pop-up shop, offering registration, Santa suit collection, and merchandise from 1 November. Arriva North West is providing free bus travel across Merseyside for Santas on race day.
A Day for All Ages
The day kicks off with the 5K main event at 9:30am, followed by the Mini Dash for children aged 12 and under at 11am. The festive spectacle welcomes everyone, from fun runners to serious fundraisers, as well as families, friends, and even pets in prams.
Alan Rothwell, BTR Liverpool Race Director, said: “The Santa Dash is a magical event that brings the whole city together. This year, we’re looking to top last year’s numbers and make it the best one yet. It’s festive, it’s fun, and it’s for everyone.” To find out more visit www.btrliverpool.com