It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas is well on its way, and there are many events coming up to get you into the festive spirit – like Santacon, an annual global event where all attendees dress up as the holly jolly man in red and embark on a festive tour in cities around the world.
The very merry Santa-filled parade will return to Beijing this year on Saturday, December 7. And, not only is Santacon coming to town, but so is Santa Claus himself. Before the big day, we caught up with the man, the myth, the legend to talk Santacon, what it’s like being a celebrity and his preferred milk and cookie combo.
Image via Giphy
Hey, Santa! Thanks for taking the time out of your busy holiday season to have an exclusive chat with us. How are you feeling today?
A bit dizzy... I am studying a map of Beijing’s hutongs in preparation for Santacon. I hope Rudolph and the other reindeer don’t get lost!
What’s it like being Santa Claus? Do you ever find the job and the fame that comes with it too much to handle?
Luckily, I have a lot of elves to help me run my Douyin and other social media accounts. Also, I have some friends who dress up as Santa to help lighten the load, so there’s not just one of me. You can meet them all at Beijing Santacon!
Image via Giphy
What do you have to say to all the nonbelievers out there?
They are just causing trouble and spreading rumors. Seeing is believing – come meet me for yourself on December 7!
What’s your preferred milk and cookie combo?
When in Beijing I prefer youtiao and soy milk. Besides, humans are the only animals that consume the milk of other mammals, which is forcefully lactated. Mrs. Claus has been encouraging the elves and I to embrace soy for health reasons.
Image via Giphy
How do you spend your time the rest of the year after Christmas ends?
Well if you have traveled to some places outside of Beijing, you may see that there are Christmas decorations in many Chinese hotels and restaurants around the entire country. Putting all those up and spreading Christmas cheer keeps me (and the elves) busy year-round.
Can you tell us a bit about the annual Santacon event in Beijing?
Santacon is an opportunity for everyone to get dressed up and release their inner Santa, helping to spread Christmas cheer around Beijing for a day. During this day we visit a number of establishments that are friendly to us Santas and offer various drink specials, which will help us raise money for charities like Maovember. This year, we will be supporting libraries in rural areas of China.
Any words of advice on how to stay on the nice list this year?
For some younger Santa followers, we encourage you to work hard in school to stay on the nice list. For all That’s Beijing readers, follow our website (bjsantacon.com) and join the WeChat group for more information on the event (just scan the QR code on the poster below). Oh, and come to Santacon, of course!
Image via Giphy
See the official Santacon poster below:
Sat Dec 7; TBD, visit bjsantacon.com for more info.
0 User Comments