Uwishunu.com

Tweet

 

The Philadelphia holiday tradition has spawned nation-wide editions, and worldwide attention. (Photo courtesy PigLipstick for Running Of The Santas)

There are so many events and activities that make Philadelphia stand out as a holiday season destination.

But perhaps the most unorthodox of these treasured traditions is the annual “Running Of The Santas,” taking place this Saturday, December 10.

The festival and pub crawl began in 1998 in Manayunk. That first year, 40 bar patrons dressed in Santa costumes prowled Main Street partaking in holiday merriment. Since then, more and more Santas have joined the cause, and similar events have cropped up in dozens of cities across the country.

The event has four stages. It begins with a pub crawl from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. featuring $2 beers at PYT, Mad River, Paddy Whack’s, Field House, The Blockley and more.

Stage 2, called “The South Pole,” is from 1-4 p.m. and features the “Hottest Santa Contest” and a pre-run party at Finnigan’s Wake. There will be $3 beers, great music and more.

The 2011 “Running Of The Santas” main event, the run itself, kicks off at precisely 4 p.m., when literally thousands of Santas will run from Finnigan’s Wake to the “North Pole,” Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing. The course is directly down Spring Garden Street, until you cut a right on Delaware Avenue all the way to Festival Pier.

The event winds up with a giant holiday party at the “North Pole,” including awesome drink specials, giant heated tents, live bands and more. Get tickets, starting at $15, online.

The event is truly a sight to see, and a great way to tap into all of the year-round traditions that make Philly the spirited city it is.

“Running Of The Santas”
When: Saturday, December 10, starting at 10 a.m.; run kicks off at 4 p.m.
Where: pre-party at Finnigan’s Wake, 537 N. 3rd Street; North Pole party at Festival Pier at Penn’s Landing
Cost: Pay as you go up until North Pole party, with tickets for that starting at $15
More info: www.runningofthesantas.com