Northern Ireland kids get the greatest Christmas gift - a trip to meet Santa in Lapland
A group of Northern Ireland children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions will fly off to meet Santa in Lapland today.
The Northern Ireland Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust (NICLT) is embarking on its much-anticipated annual trip to Lapland.
This year marks the charity’s 16th year of creating magical moments for children with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.
Over the years, NICLT has brought the wonder of Lapland to over 1,700 children, with only two interruptions due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
This annual trip provides unforgettable experiences that bring joy, respite, and cherished memories to children and their families facing some of life’s toughest challenges.
Departing from Belfast International Airport, the trip is made possible by the generous contributions of TUI, Belfast International Airport, Swissport, Santa Park, Wild Nordic in Rovaniemi and an exceptional team of healthcare professionals and volunteers.
The children, accompanied by a parent or carer, will fly to Rovaniemi, the official hometown of Santa Claus on the Arctic Circle. There, they will enjoy an enchanting day filled with reindeer and husky rides, mini skidoo adventures, magic sleigh rides, snowmobile safaris, and a magical meeting with Santa Claus himself.
Carol Buick, mother of Max (age 10), from Antrim said ahead of the trip: “Visiting Santa in Lapland would have always felt like an impossible dream because of the complexities of traveling with my child’s needs.
“This trip has not only made it possible but has taken all the stress away, allowing us to focus entirely on the magic – from meeting Santa to playing in the snow. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience we’ll treasure forever.”
Max added: “I am so excited and never thought I would be able to meet the real Santa. I am so thankful to go!”
Colin Barkley, chair of NI Children to Lapland and Days to Remember Trust, added: “There is no greater Christmas gift than bringing joy to children living with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions.
“This trip allows families to escape their daily challenges, offering a day of magic, support, and unforgettable memories.
“Our deepest thanks go to TUI, Belfast International Airport, Swissport, Santa Park, Wild Nordic, The Choir Studio from Newry and the countless volunteers and supporters who make this trip possible.
“Without their dedication, none of this would be achievable. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to our wonderful fundraisers and corporate partners including Wineflair, The Bushmills Inn, C-Tec (NI), Glens of Antrim Potatoes, CosyRoof, Bells of Crossgar, Energystore and Mango, whose generosity ensures this magical journey continues to bring light and joy to these remarkable children and their families.”
Charlotte Brenner, marketing manager at TUI, said; It is an enormous privilege to welcome on board the children, families, medical teams and support staff heading off on this exciting adventure to Lapland. We’re delighted we can lend our support once again and help to make this a joyful experience that will create wonderful lasting memories.”
Liz Stewart, head of customer services from Swissport, Belfast is part of the team supporting young travellers, their families and health staff on the ground at the airport.
She said: “It is our absolute pleasure to be working with this wonderful charity again and we are looking forward to seeing everyone on Monday.”
Adding to the festive spirit on the day, The Choir Studio from Newry will perform at the airport before departure, filling the terminal with Christmas cheer and excitement.
Kathy McCaughey of The Choir Studio said: “To be part of something so magical and special is a joy and privilege – the true meaning of Christmas for our choir.”