More than 900 bikers took to the streets of Glasgow this Easter, gathering to support the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity in their 46th annual Easter Egg Run. What started as a small tradition has blossomed into a much-anticipated event that brings together motorbike enthusiasts for a good cause.
The event, which kicked off from Glasgow Green, saw hundreds of riders decked out in vibrant costumes, some even sporting fluffy bunny ears and Minion-themed helmets. While the parade was loud and lively, the purpose behind it was all about raising funds for the hospital’s young patients.
A Tradition of Generosity
As the annual Easter Egg Run revs into its 46th year, it’s clear that this charitable event has become a staple in Glasgow’s springtime festivities. The procession of bikes, each with their own flair, made its way from Glasgow Green, passing iconic landmarks like the Clyde Arc (also known as the “Squinty Bridge”), before heading to the children’s hospital.
Organisers noted that over 900 bikers had joined in this year, helping continue the parade’s longstanding tradition. However, the event’s name can be a little misleading—participants are kindly asked not to bring Easter eggs. Many of the children at the hospital are either on special diets or are “nil by mouth,” making chocolate treats an impractical gift. Instead, bikers are encouraged to make a voluntary £10 donation, ensuring their contribution goes directly to supporting the young patients and their families.
This charitable effort is a perfect blend of community spirit, fun, and giving, embodying the best of Scotland’s biking community.
Bringing Joy to the Hospital’s Young Patients
Kirsten Watson, the Chief Executive of Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, spoke of the importance of the event in brightening the lives of young hospital patients.
“The Easter Egg Run is a highlight of the year for so many of the children in hospital,” she said. “For nearly five decades now, it’s been a shining example of the generosity and spirit of Scotland’s biking community.”
Indeed, the event is more than just a parade. It is a way to bring joy, laughter, and even a bit of magic to kids who are facing challenging health conditions. As the bikers roared into the car park outside the hospital, their colorful costumes and infectious energy were a welcome sight for families and staff alike.
The charity, which provides vital support to the hospital’s patients and their families, was overwhelmed with gratitude. The bikers’ donations help fund everything from hospital equipment to emotional support for families going through difficult times.
The Spirit of the Event: Fancy Dress, Loud Bikes, and Kindness
One of the most delightful aspects of the Easter Egg Run is the sense of fun that surrounds it. Riders don’t just show up to make a donation—they show up to create a spectacle. Many bikers sported costumes ranging from superheroes to giant fluffy bunnies, adding a playful, whimsical element to the event.
The sound of revving engines filled the air as bikers took their bikes on a noisy yet joyous ride through the streets of Glasgow. Spectators lined the sidewalks, cheering on the riders, while many took photos of the elaborate costumes. It’s a truly unique event that blends charity with community fun.
For some, this year’s parade was a family affair, with children waving from the sidelines, excited to see the motorbikes and their costume-clad riders. It’s an event that not only supports a worthy cause but also fosters a sense of togetherness and shared joy in the city.
Behind the Wheel of Charity
The Easter Egg Run is more than just a parade—it’s a reminder of how one community can come together to support its most vulnerable members. With over four decades of success, the event has raised tens of thousands of pounds, helping Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity continue to provide life-changing services to children in need.
Each biker’s donation, no matter how small, helps make a significant difference. And, perhaps most importantly, the parade offers something beyond financial support—it brings a sense of normalcy and joy to children who are often in the midst of difficult treatments.
As the bikers revved their engines and made their way through the streets of Glasgow, they didn’t just bring noise and excitement. They brought hope. They brought smiles. And they brought a little bit of magic to the kids at Glasgow Children’s Hospital.