Santa Around the World

The season to be jolly is upon us, and no matter where you are in the world, you can be sure to run across a special Christmas adventure. Here’s a few Santa-themed events around the world that promise to inspire your Christmas holiday.

Santa’s Sleepover
The holiday spirit comes alive for Santa’s Sleepover special at England’s Alton Towers resort and theme park. Throughout December, visitors can meet Santa Claus’ and his reindeer, explore his secret hideaway grotto, and stay at one of the park’s themed hotels. A one-night stay at the Alton Towers Resort includes a Christmas dinner and breakfast, rides and attractions at the theme park, and an evening watching holiday films in the hotel’s movie theater.

Breakfast with Santa in Hawaii
On December 17 and 18, Honolulu’s scenic Outrigger Reef will host Breakfast with Santa from 8am to 10am. The family-fun event includes a buffet breakfast, balloon art, face painting, and a chance to meet Santa. Tickets are $25 per adult, $12.50 for children 5 to 11 years of age, and free for children 4 and under. Reservations are required.

Running of the Santas
The Running of the Santas Mega Festival began in 1998, when a group of 40 close suited up in holiday costumes for some festive bar-hopping in Philadelphia. Going strong ever since, the festival is predicting 10,000 attendees for this year’s event – last year’s run drew 7,000 participants. Thus, on Saturday, December 7, a wave of Santa Clauses and elves will take over the streets of Philadelphia for a three-block “fun run,” starting at Finnigan’s Wake and ending at the Electric Factory. The big finale is a huge concert featuring acts such as Go Go Gadjet, Split Decision, Tonic, and many others. The festival starts at 11am, and continues throughout the day, with all sorts of fun, festive activities. A general admission ticket costs $15, VIP tickets are $40, and Premium Package tickets cost $125.

Santa Claus and the Chocolate Warehouse
The history of chocolate unfolds at The Chocolate Warehouse in Dublin, Ireland. Founded in 2001, The Chocolate Warehouse turns into a festive winter wonderland in December. Visitors can wander through the various Christmas scenes until they reach Santa’s home, where a special gift awaits. Santa visits every weekend, and every day from December 16 to Christmas Day. Admission for children is 9 euros per child, but adult admission is free.