Illustration of skaters on an outdoor plaza rink ringed with lights and a child holding a penguin skate aid (SantaCon NYC)
Other Christmas Activities

SantaCon NYC

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Get ready for SantaCon NYC, a unique and charitable Santa Claus convention that descends upon the city. This non-political, nonsensical event is all about spreading absurdist joy and supporting art. Participants are encouraged to don full Santa costumes or get creative with holiday-themed attire. It's a day of festive fun, community participation, and a spectacle of Santas taking over the town.

21+ $

Plan Your Visit

Last year

Food & Drink

Participants are encouraged to visit bars along the route, and are advised to pay with cash and tip well. Open container laws are in effect.

Parking

No specific parking information is provided. Participants are advised to use public transportation and come prepared with a Metrocard.

Location

New York City · New York, NY Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ ⚪ (1/5)

Best For

Adults seeking a unique, festive, and slightly chaotic holiday experience.

Vibe

Absurdist, festive, chaotic, charitable, communal.

Energy Level

High

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Tips & Advice

  • Wear comfortable shoes and layers of clothing, as you'll be walking and potentially experiencing cold winter weather.
  • Bring cash for quicker service at bars and to tip generously, as the event can get chaotic.
  • Stay hydrated and know your limits; Santa does not drink more than he can handle to ensure safety and the future of Santacon.
  • Respect the city, law enforcement, bar staff, and other participants by following the 'Santa Code' and leaving no trace.
  • Download the 'Hello Santa NYC' app or follow @santacon on Instagram for route updates and event information.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Charitable fundraising for art and joy
  • Full Santa costume required for participation
  • Route announced via social media
  • Downloadable SantaCon app available

Links & Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SantaCon?

SantaCon is a charitable, non-political, nonsensical Santa Claus convention that happens once a year to fund art and spread absurdist joy.

What is the Santa Code?

The Santa Code includes rules like wearing a full costume, being kind to kids and bar staff, respecting the city and NYPD, giving to charity, and staying safe.

How do I find out the route?

The route is typically announced the week before Santacon via social media, primarily @santacon on Instagram. Following them is the easiest way to stay informed.

Do I need a ticket?

While the event itself is free to participate in, a ticket may be required for entry into specific venues, acting as an 'all-access pass'. Check the official website for details.

What should I bring?

Participants should bring comfy shoes, cash for purchases and tips, a Metrocard for public transport, and layers of clothing for winter weather.

Browse Christmas in East New York

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

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