Santa tractor run on Saturday evening in Ballymena

Santa’s festive tractor and truck run returns to Ballymena on Saturday evening (December 13).

Hosted jointly by Ballymena Business Improvement District (BID) and the Traction Engine Club of Ulster (TECU) and Friends, the cavalcade is expected to draw record crowds once again, with an atmosphere that organisers describe as “always a brilliant evening”.

This year, the event supports two important local causes—NI Children’s Hospice and the local Cancer Research team—with donations and participation fees helping raise vital funds during the festive season.

The convoy will begin its illuminated journey at 6.00pm, setting off from Ballymena Market Yard on Woodside Road, where participating vehicles will gather from mid-afternoon.

Last year’s spectacle brought long lines of tractor units, vintage engines, lorries, decorated vans, and specially lit vehicles of all shapes and sizes—many wrapped in elaborate Christmas designs created by local volunteers.

To help families plan ahead, organisers have confirmed the full cavalcade route:

Official Route (Full Loop):

Ballymena Market Yard, Woodside Road

Raceview Road

Broughshane Road

Broughshane Street

Church Street

Mill Street

Wellington Street

Ballymoney Street

Thomas Street

Parkway

Broughshane Road

Raceview Road

Returning to Ballymena Market Yard, Woodside Road

Adding even more excitement, the Festive Minions—who became an instant hit during their debut last year—are returning to Ballymena town centre from 12:00pm to 3:00pm.

Anyone wishing to take part in the illuminated convoy can register their vehicle from 3:00pm at the Market Yard. To reward early arrivals, the organisers are offering free Santa hats for the first 200 participants.

Each vehicle must make a £20 charitable donation, which includes:

A free Christmas dinner

A soft drink

Served from 3pm onwards

Provided generously by the Ringside Café

Additional dinner tickets for family, supporters, or vehicle crew members are available at £10 each.

TECU and Ballymena BID have thanked everyone involved.