The 14th annual Santa Pub Crawl went off without a hitch this past November, drawing a sell-out 250-person crowd of joyously boozy Christmas revelers.
Since its inception in 2003, the occasion has evolved into one of Guangzhou’s most notable nonprofit events and was even featured in the Wall Street Journal a few years back.
This month, we talked with longtime organizer Kent Highet to find out why many are hailing the 2017 Santa Pub Crawl (SPC) as the best yet.
The 2017 pub crawl was a resounding success, what do you think made it better than previous years?
The Santas involved always make it special and they were definitely filled with Christmas spirit this year. I think this year was the best ever, with new venues – each special in their own way – and an awesome atmosphere. It really was a special night.
How much money was raised?
It looks like we have RMB20,000 to donate this year, which is great. ‘Team Santa,’ the organizing committee, are throwing around ideas [for which charity to support] and we have already donated RMB1,000 to the Jingle Bells Project, which supports Guangzhou’s homeless.
What is the best part of organizing the SPC?
There are four things: the passion of the Santas, who hail from around the world, to get involved; the smiles on peoples’ faces when they are letting loose at the venues; the moment I realize the event is running smoothly and can relax and enjoy myself; and the involvement of Chinese people, both those on the SPC and those watching on, especially the young children.
How is the event different now from when it first started?
Well, since there were only eight Santas (the gents from the Whisky Appreciation Society) on the very first Santa Pub Crawl and there are now over 250, with live music, wine, bubbles, beer and food, each year the pub crawl keeps getting bigger and better. Watch out 2018!
Rumor has it you only have another year or two left at the helm as organizer of the SPC?
Don’t remind me, I love living in Guangzhou and I plan to be here longer if China will have me. However, if I have to go, the SPC will be in good hands. I have been inviting new members to the Team Santa organizing committee over the past couple of years, so it's learning by doing and there is nothing like training on the job!
Have you ever thought about organizing a charity pub crawl to be held at another time during the year?
Yes, I have. There is definitely room in the calendar for another charity pub crawl. People love a fun event that causes no trouble and is supported by the community and raises money for charity. Leave it to me and I’ll see what Team Santa can come up with. Maybe I better start calling the organizing committee ‘Team Pub Crawl.’
Best memory from Santa Pub Crawls gone by?
I have one special photo of Santa Jody (an important SPC organizer) and myself with a Chinese woman from a few years back and the look on her face stays with me, she was so excited. Then there are the children, who are blown away to see so many Santas at one time. Satisfaction also comes with the feedback from all the participants, who rave about what a truly special event the SPC has become and the fact that they are giving back to the community while having a great time.
For more photos from the 2017 Santa Pub Crawl, see our gallery here.
This interview has been edited for clarity and length.
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