In December 1988, Firefighter / Driver Mike Thacker, organized a small group of members to decorate the 1973 Seagrave ladder truck with Christmas lights. With one-person riding on the back dressed as Santa, they drove through downtown Leesburg with the emergency lights and sirens blaring. Mike has a big heart and wanted badly to bring the joy of Christmas to the citizens. He did not have permission from any of the Company officers to use the ladder truck in this manner but figured it was easier to ask for forgiveness than approval. Mikes gamble paid off; two weeks later, the January meeting minutes state – “Our having Santa ride through the community was an excellent PR act. Everyone who received calls from this event had praise. It was noted that with this positive response we consider making this an annual event.”
The following year the event was billed as “Santa Rides Again” and included Frosty and Rudolph. Since then, it has grown into a seven-night extravaganza, reaching an estimated 30,000 or more people each year. It takes a dozen volunteers about five hours to decorate the fire truck. Members dressed as Santa, Frosty, Rudolph and recently, the Grinch spend up to three hours each night riding on top of the decorated fire truck. Santa Rides Again has become a cherished Leesburg tradition for two generations of residents and the most popular event that the Fire Company produces. Done in conjunction with our mail in fund drive, Santa Rides are our thanks to the community for helping to support the Fire Company throughout the year.
Comments (6)
River Creek LOVES and CHERISHES the Santa Rides Event! Makes even us Grandmas feel like little kids again! And thank you for taking great care of our families!
I admit i had mild depression when i moved here for work, away from friends and family. The Santa Ride reminded me there is love and humanity in the world.
We just saw the Santa truck come by, loved it, it is wonderful that you take the time to do something that surely puts a smile on all faces. Thank you for being here for the residents of Leesburg, you are greatly appreciated!! Merry Christmas!!!!
Great tradition! My kids love this and we plan on it every year. Well done, and thank you!
love the Santa rides! I’ve been here twenty years, I still enjoy seeing Santa on the back of the truck. look forward to my grandchildren enjoying Santa also.
Our daughter, age 4, loved seeing Santa and Frosty on the firetruck this year, 2018. First year she recognized Frosty. Such a wonderful and positive way to spread joy through Leesburg. Thank you all!