Liverpool was transformed into a sea of red, blue, and mini Santas last weekend (3 December) for the milestone 20th staging of the BTR Liverpool Santa Dash. A staggering 6,100 dashing Santas took part in the festive spectacular, with many regarding the event as the real kick-start to Christmas in the city. This year’s turn-out was the biggest group of dashing Santas since 2018.

As well as Santas from the North West region, others had travelled across the country to take part, as well as those visiting from Australia, Bangkok, Denmark, Ireland, Norway, and Spain.

The main 5K Santa Dash started at Pier Head Liverpool, before taking Santas through Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, and round the city centre. Before a grandstand finish outside Liverpool Town Hall – complete with stilt-walking festive characters and ‘real’ snow.

BTR Liverpool Race Director Alan Rothwell commented: “When I visited a Santa run in Newtown in Wales in 2003, I was captivated by what I saw – and just knew this was something Liverpool really needed. Fast forward 20 years, and after plenty of hard work and dedication, Liverpool now has the biggest festive 5K fun run in the UK.
 
“This year’s milestone event brought together 6,100 red, blue, and mini Santas for the most magical day to kick-start the city’s festivities. It’s a day really like no other – the sight of thousands of Santas gathering under the gaze of the Liver Birds on the banks of the River Mersey is now iconic.
 
“It’s been a pleasure to work with our partners Alder Hey Children’s Charity, Radio City, St Johns Shopping Centre, Arriva North West, and Royal Albert Dock Liverpool. The BTR team would also like to say a huge thank you to every Santa who made the day so special. Have a great Christmas and we’ll see you on 1 December 2024.”
 
Radio City Breakfast Show presenters Leanne and Scott welcomed Santas to both events. Leanne also took part in the main Santa Dash with a team who applied through the radio station called Leg It With Leanne. Guests also included the Deputy Lord Mayor Of Liverpool Councillor Richard Kemp, who was supporting his wife Erica in the main dash; and original Big Brother winner Craig Phillips, wife Laura, and two children.

Other highlights on the day included a first time appearance for Rock Choir Liverpool, who performed as Santas ran into Royal Albert Dock Liverpool before they headed to the finish line to entertain Santas in Water Street.
Liverpool drumming band Katumba once again wowed Santas and spectators with their performance on Dale Street, before a grand finale to bring the event to a rousing close once all the mini Santas had completed the course.

Entries are open for next year’s event on Sunday 1 December. Blue Santa places are limited, register now over at the event's entry page.

Image: BTR Liverpool