A unique Santa Paddle event is planned to raise money for Alder Hey Children's Charity. This new festive activity will feature dozens of illuminated kayaks traveling along Liverpool's waterfront. Organizers hope it will become an annual Christmas tradition, drawing community support for the hospital.
Key Takeaways
- The Santa Paddle is a new fundraising event for Alder Hey Children's Charity.
- It involves up to 80 kayaks, decorated with lights, paddling along Liverpool's waterfront.
- The event is scheduled for Saturday, November 29.
- Funds raised will support Alder Hey's 'Magic' area, including the Arts for Health program.
- The idea was inspired by a Danish boat parade.
Waterfront Spectacle for Charity
The event, set for the end of November, will see up to 80 participants paddle approximately 2.5 kilometers. Their route will pass several of Liverpool's notable landmarks. These include the M&S Bank Arena and the Three Graces. The journey begins at the Liverpool Watersports Centre, moves through Queens Dock, and concludes at the Royal Albert Dock.
This initiative aims to create a memorable visual experience for residents and visitors. It also provides a direct way for the community to contribute to a vital local institution. The sight of many kayaks adorned with festive lights is expected to be a highlight.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, November 29
- Distance: Approximately 2.5 kilometers
- Participants: Up to 80 paddlers
- Route: Liverpool Watersports Centre to Royal Albert Dock
Community Spirit and Fundraising Goals
Dan Smith, marketing officer for Alder Hey Children's Charity, expressed optimism about the event's impact. He believes the Santa Paddle will foster strong community spirit during the festive period. The charity hopes the illuminated kayaks will be a beloved sight along the waterfront.
"We believe this will really capture some community spirit during the festive season. The sight of so many festively lit kayaks, shining as they go down our beautiful waterfront, is something we think the city is going to love," Smith stated.
The charity aims to offer Liverpool residents an enjoyable way to support Alder Hey. This follows their successful 'Proud to Make Liverpool Proud' campaign, which highlighted the hospital's central role in the city.
A New Christmas Tradition
The Santa Paddle offers a fresh alternative to previous Christmas events. It replaces the popular Christmas Tractor Convoy, which has been cancelled indefinitely. This new event provides a different kind of visual spectacle while still allowing the public to support Alder Hey.
The concept for the Santa Paddle came from Lily, a community fundraiser for Alder Hey. She drew inspiration from the annual Danish Boat Parade in Copenhagen, where she lived for a year. Lily presented her idea to the fundraising team, who embraced it.
Inspiration from Abroad
The idea for the Santa Paddle originated from a similar event in Denmark. The Danish Boat Parade takes place annually in Copenhagen, featuring boats decorated with lights. This international inspiration aims to bring a unique festive experience to Liverpool.
Smith noted the charity's desire to innovate beyond traditional Christmas activities. "After having years of typical Christmas events, carol concerts, etc., which are great, this has really been a chance to think outside the box and capture some Christmas spirit in a new way," he explained. Organizers are anticipating a sold-out event.
Entertainment and Support for Children
The Santa Paddle will include various forms of entertainment for participants and spectators. A brass band will perform along the route. Additionally, carol singers and choirs, including the Make Noise Choir, will be present, with some performing on the boats themselves. This ensures a fun atmosphere for families attending the event.
The money collected from the Santa Paddle will go towards the 'Magic' area of Alder Hey Children's Charity's funding. This area focuses on providing magical experiences for children undergoing treatment at the hospital. One key initiative supported is Alder Hey's Arts for Health program.
Arts for Health Program
The Arts for Health program offers one-to-one sessions for children with professional musicians, artists, and entertainers. These activities are designed to provide comfort, distraction, and joy to young patients. According to Smith, this support is especially valuable for children who must remain in the hospital during the Christmas season.
The program helps create a more positive environment for children in hospital. It uses creative outlets to improve their overall wellbeing. This aligns with the charity's mission to enhance the lives of young patients beyond medical care.
How to Support Alder Hey
Community members can support the Santa Paddle and Alder Hey Children's Charity in several ways. Donations can be made by texting SANTAPADDLE to 70580. A text will result in a Ā£5 donation. Standard network rates apply for the message in addition to the donation amount.
Further details about the event and how to contribute are available on the official Alder Hey website. The charity encourages widespread participation and support to make this inaugural Santa Paddle a success. This event represents a new and exciting way for Liverpool to come together and help children in need during the festive period.
The Santa Paddle is expected to be a significant addition to Liverpool's Christmas calendar. It combines community engagement with vital fundraising. The unique nature of the event aims to draw attention and support, ensuring Alder Hey can continue its important work for children.