Since the jolly days of 2003, our family has been merrily participating in The World Santa Claus Congress held in Bakken, Denmark. Picture this: in 2016, four generations of our family, including my father Peter, my brother Peter, my daughter Luanne, her sons Brandon and Tyler, and myself were there together to participate in the event. We were the only family with three members (myself the only female!) to have the honour of donning the red suit as Santa ambassadors with my daughter and grandsons there dressed as elves to experience the joys of the event and cheer us on.
The original Danish congress, a festive tradition since 1957, delighted attendees every year until the world took an unexpected twist with Covid. In 2022, Bakken bid adieu to its sponsorship, but fear not – the spirit of Santa knows no bounds!
Unlike ordinary gatherings, this congress was no conventional school or standard convention. Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and elves showcased their skills in spreading joy, hope, and Christmas cheer to the public. From parades and foot baths (that turned into sea swims!) to delightful contests and Bakken parades, it was a jubilant experience. The World Santa Claus Congress was not just a celebration but a global lesson in culture and camaraderie.
To celebrate our father’s 90th birthday in 2023, we worked hard to make one of his lifelong dreams come true- to attend a World Santa Congress right here in Canada! Our inaugural event was a sleigh ride of success, and we look forward to continuing to build on our festive symphony of joy, love, and laughter.
Signed, Mrs. Claus (Cheryl)
