The City of Cape Town’s Fire & Rescue Service is calling on residents to help bring festive cheer to underprivileged children, as firefighters once again join the annual Toy Run taking place at Killarney on Sunday, 30 November 2025.

They’ll be riding alongside hundreds of bikers in what has become one of Cape Town’s most iconic pre-festive season charity events.

The Toy Run invites anyone to take part, with a toy, new or pre-loved, and still in good condition, serving as the entry ticket.

All donations collected are distributed to children in hospitals, places of safety, orphanages and community organisations across the Western Cape.

In the days leading up to the event, the City’s fire stations have also been designated as official toy drop-off points.

Members of the public can deliver donations at any time to the station watch rooms. The only exception is the Lakeside Fire Station, which remains closed for renovations.

“Everything we collect will be loaded onto one of our fire engines and transported to Killarney as part of the procession,” the Fire & Rescue Service said, noting that last year’s community response was overwhelming.

Firefighters, who have spent much of the past week battling blazes across the metro, say they’re now hoping to “fight for smiles” instead. They’re encouraging families to clean out toy boxes and donate items that can brighten a child’s holiday season.

Residents are encouraged to drop off toys by the latest Saturday, 29 November, to ensure they are included in this year’s Toy Run delivery.

“Cape Town rose to the occasion last year, and we’re confident the public will once again help us rescue the joy this festive season.”