Mullingar Railway Station was filled with Christmas cheer and the spirit of Scouting over the weekend of Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 December, as 9th Westmeath Milltownpass Scout Group once again brought the much-loved Santa Express to the Midlands. Organised entirely by volunteers from 9th Westmeath Milltownpass Scout Group, the Santa Express welcomed hundreds of families from across Westmeath and beyond for a festive, community-focused event built on the core Scout values of service, inclusion and teamwork. The weekend offered live music, festive characters and a warm welcome for families, creating a memorable Christmas experience while raising funds for charity.
A particular highlight for the Group was the honour of a visit from Eoin Callanan, Chief Scout, who spent time at Mullingar Station meeting volunteers and acknowledging the scale of the event and the commitment shown by Scouters, Ventures and supporters from across the country.
The Scout Group was delighted to be supported by members of the wider Scouting family, with Ventures and Scouters travelling from Athy, Carlow Town, Stamullen, Kingscourt and Kells to volunteer throughout the weekend, as well as over 100 volunteers from the local community. The event also proved a popular Christmas outing for younger members, with Beaver Scouts from 1st / 10th Westmeath Mullingar, 5th Roscommon Moore and 24th Kildare Carbury choosing the Santa Express as their festive group activity.
The positive impact of the event extended well beyond Mullingar, with the Santa Express receiving national media coverage when Today FM’s “Comes to Town” broadcast live from Mullingar Railway Station on Sunday morning. Alison Curtis and the Today FM Weekend Breakfast team brought the festive atmosphere, music and community spirit of the Santa Express to listeners across the country, shining a national spotlight on the work of the Scout Group and its volunteers.
Throughout the weekend, the station was alive with music thanks to performances from the Defence Forces Band of the 2nd Brigade, Mullingar Town Band, Sweet Tunes Choir and Mullingar Gospel Choir. Children also enjoyed meeting a wide range of festive characters, including Santa and Mrs Claus, the Grinch, Elsa and Olaf, Belle, Spiderman and Elf on the Shelf, providing plenty of smiles and photo opportunities before boarding.
On board the Santa Express, families were treated to live music and sing-alongs from local performers, alongside visits from Santa, Mrs Claus and the elves, ensuring a lively and engaging experience for all ages.
Inclusion was a key focus throughout the event, with a dedicated sensory experience provided on every service. This was supported once again by Thinking Toys, with owner Áine Conacur travelling from Killaloe, Co. Clare, to ensure children who may find busy environments challenging could enjoy the experience in a calm and welcoming environment.
The Group also extended sincere thanks to Iarnród Éireann for their continued support in facilitating the event, as well as to the many local businesses and sponsors whose generosity helped make the Santa Express possible.
While a technical issue meant that the 3.15 service on Saturday afternoon was unable to complete the planned train journey, families were still welcomed on board and the festive experience continued. The organisers thanked families for their patience and understanding and confirmed that all affected families have been contacted with an offer of an alternative train journey experience in January or a partial refund.
Funds raised through the Santa Express will support 9th Westmeath Milltownpass Scout Group’s plans to construct their own Scout Den, with a planning application due for submission early in the new year. The event also supports Focus Ireland, Iarnród Éireann’s charity partner, with a contribution from event proceeds going towards supporting families in need.
