Berkshire’s BEST Santa Dash 2024: A Festive Celebration to Remember! 

Last Sunday, Windsor transformed into a sea of red and white as the much-anticipated Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service Santa Dash returned for 2024!  

Known as Berkshire’s BEST Santa Dash, the event brought together families, friends, and festive dashers of all ages for a day of seasonal cheer, community spirit, and charitable giving. And this year saw our highest number of Santas since the Covid Pandemic with roughly 500 Santa’s taking to the start line! 

Taking place on Sunday, 1st December 2024, the dash was a joyous affair, despite the weather, with the rain adding a touch of authenticity to this quintessentially British event! This year’s route was nothing short of iconic, starting at the top of the Long Walk in Windsor.  

Participants dashed down the majestic avenue and back up, with Windsor Castle standing proudly as the backdrop, before weaving through Windsor Royal Shopping Centre and finishing at the lively Bachelor’s Acre. Separated into ‘Speedy Santas’, ‘Jolly Joggers’, ‘Diddy Dashers’ and ‘Pawsome Pals’, participants ran the race at their own speed, taking in the sights and sounds of the day.  

A Community Coming Together 

We were delighted to have Horler and Associates, Windsor’s longest-running family-owned estate agents, as our sponsors this year. Their ongoing support for Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service has been incredible, and they truly embody the spirit of giving back to the local community. 

We would also like to thank Oakwood Estates, McNaha Health Services and Snap Fitness 24/7, who all sponsored a kilometer on the day of the race.  

The day kicked off with pre-race entertainment courtesy of Fizzy Whizzy, who brought laughter and magic to the eager crowd. EL Fitness then got everyone into the festive spirit with a lively warm-up session, ensuring Santas of all shapes and sizes were ready to run, walk, or jog the course.  

Along the way, the route was lined with supporters cheering on participants, creating a heartwarming atmosphere that encapsulates the magic of this event. 

Sweet Treats and Warm Welcomes 

After crossing the finish line, dashers were rewarded with a free Cinnamon Bun from Cinnamon Cafe with a flash of their medal, while those visiting Sweaty Betty enjoyed a generous 20% discount in-store upon showing their medal. Over at Mamma Mia Pasta Bar, finishers indulged in a well-earned free coffee and/or cake, adding a delicious conclusion to their festive dash. A huge thank you also goes to the Fox and Bear Coffee Bar, who kept spirits high by providing much-needed hot drinks and sweet treats. 

Capturing the Festive Fun 

We also want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Lily Glover, Helen Tamlin, and Steve Madoc-Jones of Windsor Rugby Club, who volunteered their time to photograph the event. Their stunning snapshots captured the joy, determination, and community spirit of the day, creating memories to cherish and share. A gallery of some of these photos sits below.  

Behind the Scenes 

This event simply wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and hard work of all our incredible volunteers, a small army of whom turned up on the day to raise vital funds for the babies, children and families that Alexander Devine Support.  

From those who managed the bag drop, check-in desk, and refreshments, to the amazing individuals who stood at mile markers cheering on participants, held umbrellas in the rain, or served tea and coffee – you are the lifeblood of Alexander Devine’s work, and of the Santa Dash! 

“To every single individual who gave up their time, energy, and enthusiasm: THANK YOU SO MUCH from the bottom of our hearts!” 

This event showcased the power of community and the incredible things we can achieve when we come together for a common cause. 

Running for a Cause 

The Santa Dash is about more than just festive fun run – it’s a vital fundraiser for Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service. Every step taken, every cinnamon bun enjoyed, and every cheer shouted helps us continue providing vital care and support to children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions and their families. 

Until Next Year… 

To everyone who joined us, supported us, or cheered us on, or engaged with our social media content for the event – thank you for making the 2024 Santa Dash a spectacular success.  

As we pack away the gazebos, staging, signage and coffee urns, and reflect on a day filled with community, generosity, and festive joy, we’re already looking forward to doing it all again next year! 

The date for next year’s event has been just confirmed for 9am on Sunday 30^th November, in the same place, so let’s go all out to make it even bigger and better! See you in 2025!  

Photo Gallery: