Santa’s train sets off from Chisinau, carrying 270 children on a “Race to the North Pole”
Santa's train departed from Chisinau Railway Station on Saturday for a magical adventure. Hundreds of children from vulnerable families and those with special needs experienced unforgettable moments during the charity event "Race to the North Pole." The children had the opportunity to ride the train for an hour, participate in interactive activities and musical performances, and even meet Santa Claus.
The children enjoyed the wonderful moments provided by the illusionists and carolers. They told us they wrote letters to Santa Claus and had been good this year.
One child said, "I wrote that I want a cat because I really want one and I like them. I want to have a pet."
Another child shared, "What I like most is that I get to travel by train." When asked if they had ever been on a train, they replied, "Never. Did you write a letter to Santa Claus?" The child responded, "Yes, I wrote that I want sweets and toys."
A different child mentioned, "I wrote to Santa Claus that I want a guitar." When asked why they wanted a guitar, they explained, "Because in the future, I want to be a guitarist."
Parents and companions agree that these events are a welcome sight, as they bring smiles to children's faces.
"They are very welcome. I believe these activities should be organized more frequently in other regions, like Fălești and Bălți," one parent noted.
"I have observed that in each carriage, there are children from various organizations, including those from vulnerable families. We even have children diagnosed with Down syndrome here," another parent said.
A total of 270 children participated in the “Race to the North Pole.”
“We considered what we could do for children who rarely have the opportunity to see Santa Claus. One idea led to another, from elves to Santa Claus,” says Sandu Sîrbu, the organizer and director of a radio station.
“They enjoyed a one-hour train ride, along with treats and juice, creating a magical experience. The Carabinieri band also performed for us. We also received a gift, which consisted of everything our partners generously contributed,” says Diana Botnaru, organizer and producer at a radio station.
At the end of the event, the children received gifts from Santa Claus and enjoyed artificial snow.
The "Race to the North Pole" is in its first edition. The organizers plan for this event to become an annual tradition.
