Can the Santa Bus reach the £500,000 magical milestone?

Brighton & Hove Buses is calling on businesses and organisations across the city to help its much-loved Santa Bus reach a major fundraising milestone during its 23rd festive tour this winter.

Since its launch 22 years ago, the Santa Bus has raised £481,649.51 for local charities and community organisations. With just £18,350 needed to reach £500,000, this year's tour could see the initiative surpass half a million pounds in donations for local good causes.

The Santa Bus will return in late November for 20 festive nights across Brighton & Hove, raising money for 12 local charities and community organisations. Full details of this year's beneficiary charities, routes and operating dates will be announced on the 21st October 2026.

As part of the fundraising effort, Brighton & Hove Buses is inviting shops, cafés, pubs, restaurants, offices, community venues and other organisations to become official Santa Bus Collection Points.

Businesses taking part will receive a Santa Bus collection pot, promotional posters and materials, as well as social media assets to help encourage donations from customers, visitors and staff.

Matthew Ashton, Managing Director at Brighton & Hove Buses, said:
"The Santa Bus has become one of Brighton & Hove's most cherished festive traditions, bringing communities together while raising vital funds for local charities. Reaching the £500,000 mark would be a fantastic achievement and we're encouraging businesses across the city to help make it happen."

Santa Claus added: "We're within a snowball's throw of something very special. Thanks to the generosity of local people, the Santa Bus has already raised an incredible £481,650. If we can raise another £18,350 this year, together we'll reach the magical milestone of £500,000 for local good causes. Ho Ho Ho!"

Businesses interested in becoming a Santa Bus Collection Point can fill in the online application form here, and one of Santa's Little Helpers will contact you.

Every donation collected will help support local charities and community groups, ensuring the Santa Bus continues to make a difference while spreading festive cheer across the city.

Ho ho ho!