Countdown to Saintfield Christmas Charity Ride

Countdown to Saintfield Christmas Charity Ride

4 December 2024

THE 18th annual Saintfield Christmas Charity Ride will have a new route for 2024.

Taking place this Saturday, riders dressed as Santa from across the province will arrive at the new venue of Mary Mother of the Church, 33 Crossgar Road, Saintfield.

The day will start with at 11am with a mulled wine and mince pie reception with festive music to help participants to get into the Christmas spirit.

At noon the Santas will mount up and follow the new route which is approximately three miles long.

The riders will head to Todd’s Hill, Station Road, Ballyagherty Road, Carsonstown Road, back to Station Road and finish the route in Saintfield town.

Arriving in the town at approximately 1pm-1.15pm, the real Santa will lead the way in his carriage followed by a swarm of Santas on horseback.

Meanwhile, Hugo Duncan, Gerard Dornan and Box Car Brian will be entertaining the crowds of well wishers.

At the Christmas tree in the centre of the town Santa will get out of his carriage with surprises for the children. 

The procession will continue up Main Street, Downpatrick Street and The Old Grand Jury Road, before returning to Mary Mother of the Church by the back entrance.

All money raised at the charity ride will go towards bringing a children’s choir from Uganda to next year’s event.

The cost of taking part is £20 per adult and £10 per child. For further details contact Joan Cunningham on 07775 860744 or joancunningham1@gmail.com.

Entries are open and can be made online at www.saintfieldhorseshow.com or by clicking the link on Facebook.