Dogs Trust Ballymena hosts festive Christmas fair with special visit from Santa Paws

Good Boy Olly who can't contain his excitement to meet Santa Paws at Dogs Trust Ballymena's Christmas Fair

Festive fun is on the way to County Antrim as Dogs Trust Ballymena prepares to host its much-loved Christmas Fair on Saturday 6 December, complete with a special appearance from the one and only Santa Paws.

The annual event is a firm favourite with local supporters, and this year promises to be no exception as the team welcomes families, dog lovers and their four-legged companions for a day filled with community spirit and seasonal cheer.

“As the Dogs Trust team and the dogs they are caring for are always ‘nice’, Santa is making a special appearance, bringing the festive sparkle that only he can, so you don’t want to miss it,” the charity confirmed.

Festive Stalls, Treats and Christmas Gifts

Running from 10am to 3pm, the fair will offer a variety of stalls featuring raffles, games and sweet treats suitable for all ages.

Alongside stalls hosted by Dogs Trust, a number of external vendors will also be in attendance, selling unique Christmas gifts that are “pawfect” for seasonal shopping.

For £10, visitors and their canine companions can enjoy a memorable meet-and-greet with Santa Paws, including a professional photo opportunity and a Christmas gift wrapped by Santa’s elves.

Supporting Dogs in Need

Kirsty Mark, Supporter Relations Officer at Dogs Trust Ballymena, said:

“The Christmas Fair is always a highlight of the year for us, and it’s such a well-supported event by locals. All the money raised on the day goes directly to supporting the dogs in our care, so it’s a wonderful way to raise pounds for hounds whilst getting in the Christmas spirit.

“If anyone has any goodies or unwanted gifts they would like to donate for raffle prizes, all donations will be greatly appreciated. We look forward to welcoming Santa Paws, the public and their canine companions to our Christmas Fair.”

Visitors will also have the chance to meet the dogs currently looking for new homes, browse craft and food stalls, and enjoy a mince pie or two with a hot drink. Entry to the fair is £2, payable by cash only on the day.

How to Donate

Anyone wishing to contribute raffle prizes or other donations can drop items off at Dogs Trust Ballymena, 60 Teeshan Road, Ballymena BT43 5PN, or contact Kirsty directly at kirsty.mark@dogstrust.org.uk.