Saintfield Christmas charity ride

Saintfield Christmas charity ride

17 September 2025

PLANS are well underway for the 19th Saintfield Christmas Charity Ride which will take place on Saturday, December 6.

Some changes have been made this year which will make the ride even more exciting. This spectacular extravaganza has become one of the most eagerly anticipated on the Christmas calendar. Riders from all over the province, dressed up as Santa, will converge on the historical market town of Saintfield to take part.

Once again Mary Mother of the Church are kindly hosting the ride from their magnificent parking facilities on the Crossgar Road.

All the Santas will arrive for a mulled wine and mince pie reception at 11am. At 12 noon the Santas will mount up and follow the “real Santa” in his magnificent carriage.  

The ride is strictly a hack and is suitable for most riders. Children or inexperienced riders can be led by an adult. The ride will be approx. three miles long on peaceful countryside roads. A short route can be taken for young children.

In Saintfield’s Main Street the crowds of well wishers will be entertained by Hugo Duncan, Box Car Brian and Gerard Dornan.

At approximately 1-1.15pm the ride will come over Todds Hill turning Saintfield into a sea of red. This spectacular site is not to be missed.

The “real Santa” in his magnificent carriage will lead the multitude of Santas up Main Street, stopping at the Christmas tree where Santa will get out of his carriage to meet and greet all the children.

The Santas will then continue up Main Street and turn around the Fair Green before making their way back down Main Street. 

Organiser Joan Cunningham said: We were looking forward to the children’s choir from Uganda coming over this year, but unfortunately due to circumstances beyond our control they will not be coming.”

The cost of the ride will be £20 for adults and £10 for children, which includes the mulled wine and mince pie reception.

Further details contact Joan on 07775 860744, or email joancunningham1@gmail.com;  website www.saintfieldhorseshow/christmascharityride.com.