Join Santa for horse and carriage rides on the boards

The Ocean City Boardwalk will feature horse and carriage rides with Santa on Dec. 17, 18 and 24 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

The big, red carriage, pulled by two horses named Jake and Bonnie, will be open to all ages at $10 per person, although children under three ride free. Reservations are available.

The ride holds 12 adults and travels down the pier and boardwalk, all the while playing Christmas music with many opportunities for pictures.

“I try to take it slow so (everyone) can enjoy it,” organizer Randy Davis said, who plays Santa Claus.

Randy and Brenda Davis, co-owners of R & B Ranch who sponsor the event, brought this event to Ocean City last year after being ranked the #1 Christmas event in Berlin and originating in Salisbury Park.

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When playing Father Christmas, Randy Davis uses a professional Santa suit that he has used since he first began his horse and carriage rides with Santa.

He also uses the suit when he plays Santa at day cares and other special events.

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“I get the real ‘Christmas-y’ spirit going, hopefully,” he said. “It’s really cool, I can’t believe I dreamed it up, but I did. I’m all about the kids.”

Davis said that when the kids see him on the Boardwalk, while some are shy or timid, many are “ecstatic” to see him.

“The kids are the future,” he said, “so they have to have good times and memories so they can build a good future.”

@TheShannonWiley

IF YOU GO

Horse and Carriage Rides with Santa

Where: Ocean City Boardwalk on the Inlet

When: Dec. 17, 18 and 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Info: Randy Davis at 443-783-1409