Dozens of professional Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and elves from nations ranging from Norway to Japan recently braved a intense European heatwave to celebrate "Christmas in July" at the World Santa Claus Congress. Held annually in Aalborg, Denmark, this festive tradition dates back to 1957. The performers gather to network, share trade secrets, and playfully compete over who boasts the best beard.
Despite the scorching summer temperatures, the participants marched through the city streets fully dressed in traditional heavy red suits and thick white beards. Alongside the lively public parades, the congress features gingerbread-eating contests, gift-wrapping races, and balloon-modeling events.
As one participating Danish Santa noted, the true holiday spirit isn't dictated by the calendar; it is a state of mind you can bring out anytime to spread joy, no matter how hot the weather gets.