SantaCon NYC 2023

This Saturday, Dec. 9 is SantaCon 2023. Whether you're planning to participate or to stay as far away as possible, here's what you need to know.

First, SantaCon has raised nearly $1.1M over the past decade for charities across the city. Every year thousands of New Yorkers make a $15 donation and dress up as Santa (or as Santa-adjacent characters like Mrs. Claus, elves, snowmen, etc.). From 10 AM to 8 PM they visit participating bars, clubs, and more across the city. The venues offer admission and drink specials, and earmark a portion of their profits for the chosen charities. The route is kept secret until a few days beforehand, then announced on SantaCon's app and social media.

Yes, it can get messy. SantaCon is aware of this, and their website spells out its "6 Fs:" Don't "F" with Kids, Cops, Bar Staff, Yourself, NYC, or SantaCon's Charitable Mission." But hey, the participants by and large seem to be having fun; and it can be fun for spectators too. For details and tickets, click here.