AALBORG, Denmark (AP) – While Europe is still experiencing the warmth of summer, the Danish city of Aalborg is already embracing the spirit of Christmas. The city is currently hosting the World Santa Claus Congress, a colorful midsummer tradition that has been ongoing for decades.
The congress was first held in 1957 at an amusement park near Copenhagen and has since found its home in Aalborg, Denmark's fourth-largest city, two years ago. As this year marks the lead-up to its 70th anniversary, participants have gathered in festive attire, although the Santa suits may feel a bit stifling under the summer sun.
This event is not just about entertaining children; it has transformed into a significant assembly for Santas who play roles in stores and shopping malls during the Christmas season. Attendees have a unique opportunity to share stories, compare beards, refine their performance skills, and participate in playful competitions well in advance of the bustling holiday period.
The packed schedule encompasses a variety of activities such as gingerbread eating contests, gift wrapping races, balloon modeling, and lively parades. Peter Gislund, an organizer of the event and a Santa Claus himself in Aalborg, noted the different perspectives attendees bring: elderly onlookers may grumble about the timing, while children enthusiastically celebrate the arrival of Santa.
The World Santa Claus Congress, which lasts four days, has attracted participants from around the globe, with Santas and Mrs. Clauses traveling from as far as Australia, Hong Kong, Canada, and the United States. While most attendees hail from Scandinavian countries, some, like Paradise Yamamoto from Tokyo, have flown in to partake in the festivities.
Yamamoto expressed her joy, stating, “This is very fun, so many children... Ho, ho, ho!” as she joined a parade, waving a Japanese flag and dancing to the tune of "Feliz Navidad," one of the many Christmas classics played at the event. Robert Hercz, a 64-year-old Santa from Oslo, emphasized that despite the diversity among participants, they all share a common trait: a spirit of generosity and joy. He remarked, “You have it or you don’t... It’s all about giving, sharing, and putting a little bit of joy in people’s hearts.”
However, the gathering is not solely about joviality and festivities. Gislund noted that when Santas convene, they often share tips and tricks, enhancing their craft and adding a dash of sparkle to their appearance. This camaraderie among Santas from different parts of the world is celebrated and cherished.
For Simon Brøns, a 33-year-old Santa from Denmark, the event underscores a profound message: the festive spirit is not limited to the Christmas season. He said, “Christmas is not a season. It’s a feeling you have in your stomach. So if you want, you can have Christmas the whole year.” This sentiment culminates in the essence of the World Santa Claus Congress, showcasing how the holiday spirit transcends a specific time of year and becomes a broader celebration of joy and community.
