FESTIVE spirit is a sure bet at Pakenham’s bumper Christmas race meeting on Friday.
Pakenham Racing Club officials are expecting a big crowd with the first race jumping at 1pm and the final event at 5.17pm.
There will be a visit from Santa Claus between 2pm and 4pm, arranged through the Pakenham Fire Brigade.
The jolly fellow will parade down the home straight in a fire truck and then spread Christmas cheer to the on-course corporate marquees.
Close to 1,000 patrons have been booked in to marquee dining packages at the meeting, officially named the Bundy Rum Christmas Race Day.
Among nominations for the eight-race program are horses prepared by Pakenham trainers including Dianne Clover, Gavin Brady, Sharen Gotts, John Gunning and former jockey Mick Tabone.
Admission will be $10 for adults, $5 concession and children free.
The club has a no BYO alcohol policy that will be strictly enforced, but full bar facilities will be available on course.