10TH ANNUAL SANTA CRUISE: A FESTIVE RIDE FOR ECHO
Experience the festive magic of The Santa Cruise, held annually in London. Discover how hundreds of Santas, elves, and other festive characters take to the streets of London for a charitable cause. The 10th annual Santa Cruise, a fundraising event organised by BMX Life for the Evelina Children’s Heart Organisation (ECHO), took place on 14 December 2024. And while owning a BMX isn’t a requirement to participate, it certainly adds to the festive spectacle!
What is the echo charity?
Before we delve into how amazing the Santa Ride was, let’s learn a bit about the incredible organisation that the fundraising event is all about: The Evelina Children’s Heart Organisation (ECHO).
ECHO: Supporting Families on the Heart Journey
ECHO is a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting families affected by children’s heart conditions, from diagnosis through adulthood, providing vital assistance to them. This includes emotional and practical support for parents, guidance for siblings, and resources to help young people live fulfilling lives.
You can read more about the fabulous work they do on their website: Evelina Children’s Heart Organisation: ECHO.
ECHO relies solely on public generosity, making the Santa Ride an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of the charity and generate much-needed funds.
Setting Off on a Festive Adventure
Cycling from Fenchurch Street Station to the starting point at Leake Street, we encountered what would usually be some truly bizarre sights: giant Christmas presents strolling down the street (not part of the event, but I’m sure they were on their way to have a blast too!) and a parade of random Santas and elves seemingly heading towards the starting point too. The occasional honk from passing vehicles added to the festive cheer.
Arriving at Leake Street Arches, we were met with an incredible sight: hundreds of riders decked out in the most creative costumes imaginable. Santas, Grinches, elves, the Hoo family, Ali-G, a giant turkey, snowmen – the diversity was simply astounding!
A Festive Ride Through London
We set off at 11:00 AM, making a brief stop at Forum Magnum Square where participants showcased their bike skills.
A penguin cycling around playing hardcore Christmas music from his boombox added to the atmosphere and kept the mood upbeat.
Next, we stopped at Evelina London Children’s Hospital, where the Stratford East Singers choir performed three beautiful songs. This was a heartwarming moment amidst the festive chaos, and a reminder that not everyone will be home for Christmas. The was an opportunity for gifts to be dropped to the hospital, from selection boxes to toiletries, and more!
The ride continued across Lambeth Bridge, through Horse Guards Road, past Buckingham Palace, and through Hyde Park. Oxford Street was a carnival atmosphere, with crowds lining the streets to cheer us on.
After a well-deserved break and refreshments at the Palace Theatre, we navigated Whitehall (with a slight detour to avoid a protest near 10 Downing Street) and crossed Westminster Bridge.
While our personal ride concluded at Southbank Skatepark, those that remained continued on their merry way at the final stop to The Oasis Farm in Waterloo.
Join the Fun Next Year!
Want to experience the magic for yourself? Keep an eye on BMX Life’s social media pages and ECHO’s event page for the date of next year’s Santa Cruise, usually scheduled for mid-December.
Whether you join the ride or simply spectate, the sight of hundreds of Santas cycling through London is guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit!
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