Illustration of a ice skating scene (SantaCon NYC)
Other Christmas Activities

SantaCon NYC

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.

What to Expect

City-wide Santa Claus convention and bar crawl

Event Details

Duration

All day

Ages

21+

Timed Entry

No

Organizer

SantaCon NYC

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.

Get Tickets

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

Budget

$

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (4/5)

Weather Sensitivity

Moderate

Location

New York City
New York, NY

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: $ – Get tickets
  • Parking: No specific parking information is provided. Participants are advised to use public transportation and come prepared with a Metrocard.
  • Pets: No pets allowed

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

Quick Actions

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.

Tags

community celebrationholiday traditionseasonal activitiescharity eventfamily friendlyfestive atmosphereholiday cheerwinter activitiesfree event

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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.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team