PREPARATIONS are 'well underway' for the 20th Liverpool Santa Dash, which is raising funds for Claire House this year.
Taking place on Sunday, December 1, it is believed to be the UK's biggest festive 5K fun run and highly regarded as the city's kick-start to Christmas.
The 5K route starts at Pier Head Liverpool at 9.30am, before taking Santas through Royal Albert Dock Liverpool and round the city centre. The grandstand finish line at Liverpool Town Hall features stilt-walking festive characters and ‘real’ snow.
The Mini Dash 1K for youngsters aged 12 and under starts at approximately 11am on Castle Street, once all Santas in the main Dash have completed the course. Youngsters follow a shorter city centre route and share the finish line.
Last year, 6,100 Santas took part, the biggest turn-out since 2018.
The countdown to this year's dash launched at Gravity MAX in Liverpool city centre where Santas swapped reindeers for go-karts. Also attending were representatives from official charity partner Claire House with mascot Claire Bear in festive attire and radio presenter Claire Simmo from official media partner In Demand Radio.
To join them, go to https://www.btrliverpool.com/santa-dash-event
Claire House is the children’s hospice for Liverpool and beyond, providing the very best care for seriously and terminally ill local children and their families.
Mark Pearson, events fundraising manager for Claire House said: "Everyone at Claire House is so excited to be the Official Charity Partner of the BTR Liverpool Santa Dash 2024.
"We are the children’s hospice for Liverpool and beyond, caring for seriously and terminally ill local children – and we can only do this with the support of the local community.
“Santas can run for free by pledging to raise £120 or more in sponsorship.
"Thank you to everyone who has already signed up to dash with us, it’s going to be a fantastic day."
The very first Liverpool Santa Dash took place in 2004.
It was created by BTR Liverpool race director Alan Rothwell. Over two decades, the event has continued to evolve. In 2007, the 1K Mini Dash was introduced for youngsters aged 12 and under, while blue Santa suits were added to the fun in 2010 due to public demand.
BTR Liverpool also organises the Liverpool Half Marathon, BTR Mersey Tunnel 10K, BTR Tour Of Merseyside, Port Sunlight Road Race and Run For The 97 5K.
Mr Rothwell said: "We’re half-way through September and Team BTR are already fully immersed in Santa Dash preparations.
“When I visited a Santa run in Newtown in Wales in 2003, I was captivated by what saw – and instantly knew this was something Liverpool would absolutely love and totally embrace. And here we are, marking the milestone 20th anniversary of the Liverpool Santa Dash.
"Last year we welcomed 6,100 red, blue and mini Santas – we want to smash that number. It's a magical day that has to be seen to be believed. It’s festive, it’s fun, it’s for everyone."
Claire Simmo from In Demand Radio said: "We’re thrilled to announce In Demand Radio as the Official Media Partner for this year’s BTR Liverpool Santa Dash. As one of the city’s favourite festive events, we’re excited to bring the fun and energy of the Dash to our listeners.
"This partnership allows us to connect with the heart of Liverpool and support an incredible cause, all while celebrating the Christmas spirit.
"Tune in for exclusive updates, interviews, and live coverage as we gear up for a day filled with music, laughter, and festive cheer. Let’s make this year’s Santa Dash the best one yet. See you there – Ho Ho Ho!”
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