Better Watch Out! Santacon Is Coming to Town

Santa Claus and Elvis have a lot in common. They’re both larger-than-life figures with jolly round bellies and deep baritone voices; every once in a while, someone claims to have spotted one of them under suspect circumstances; and people of all ages, sexes, and races get a kick out of dressing up as them — sometimes in droves. Like the Flying Elvi — a group of Elvis impersonators who leap from planes — Santacon gives you a chance to see an endless sea of the Clauses, but safely on the ground. In fact, you’re encouraged to dress up yourself. Santacon is a worldwide event perfect for those not content to let others carry the bag. Like a holiday flash mob, Santacon Fort Lauderdale participants will meet at 6:30 p.m. at the Floridian (1410 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale) to then descend en masse on downtown Fort Lauderdale, ending the night at the Green Room (100 SW Third Ave., Fort Lauderdale), where all the Santas will receive a free drink. The emphasis on this outing is on creativity and fun, both in action and in dress. Your costume could be a traditional red suit or an artistic homage to ol’ Nick. But keep the holiday antics in the proper merry spirit. Do not shame or defame Santa Claus. For a list of guidelines — including not throwing coal at children — visit Santacon.info. For information specifically about Santacon Fort Lauderdale, visit its Tumblr page, santaconfortlauderdale.tumblr.com or “like” their Facebook page. Participation is free, but the point of Santacon Fort Lauderdale is to collect goods and money for Kids in Distress, so please have something to donate. Also, bring plenty of small gifts to hand out to unsuspecting strangers — nice gifts for children and naughty gifts for grownups. To RSVP for the Green Room Santa Soiree, send an email to [email protected].
Sat., Dec. 17, 6:30 p.m., 2011