Santas worldwide gather for annual world congress in Denmark
The annual World Santa Claus Congress, now in its 60th year, has drawn attendees from a dozen countries, most sporting traditional red coats and white beards despite the warmer-than-winter weather.
It’s summertime in Denmark but Santas from around the world are already planning for the festive season, with more than 150 gathering in Copenhagen to share some early Christmas cheer.
What brings hundreds of Santa Clauses to Copenhagen in mid-July? The World Santa Claus Congress, of course! 🎅🏼🎄https://t.co/hr7b8SLJKw pic.twitter.com/fySWprvelk
— Denmark in New York (@DenmarkinNY) July 24, 2017
The annual World Santa Claus Congress, now in its 60th year, has drawn attendees from a dozen countries, most sporting traditional red coats and white beards despite the warmer-than-winter weather.
People dressed as Santa Claus disembarking from the bus ahead of the World Santa Claus Congress held annually in Copenhagen, Denmark, July 25, 2017. (Reuters)
The three-day event, always held at the Bakken amusement park, will see the Santa’s parade in the streets of the Danish capital, bathe in the sea and enjoy a herring tasting.
Santas enjoying the sea in Denmark, July 26, 2017 (Reuters)
Some will also take to the runway at a fashion show.
“We have a discussion about important things in life – for example, which day is Christmas Day?” said Santa Wolfgang from Germany, who has been participating in the congress since 1996.
People dressed as Santa Claus take a canal tour of Copenhagen as they take part in the World Santa Claus Congress, in Denmark, July 24, 2017 (Reuters)
Christmas is celebrated on different days in different countries, with Advent and other traditions extending the festive season through most of December and January.
Another hot topic at this year’s congress is the colour of the Christmas tree, said Santa Elizabeth from Denmark.
