A festive storm swept through San Francisco’s Union Square on Saturday as thousands of Santas descended upon the neighborhood for the annual SantaCon, a holiday toy drive and bar crawl that has become a beloved yet chaotic tradition. The event, which began in 1994 as a critique of consumerism, has evolved into a massive gathering that draws thousands of participants.
Organizers aimed to keep things under control this year, with an added focus on safety and generosity. Attendees were encouraged to donate toys to the San Francisco Firefighters Toy Program, which is now one of the event’s major beneficiaries.
Despite efforts to tone down rowdy behavior, some Santas still let loose, causing brief commotion in the area. However, attendees generally reported a more peaceful atmosphere than in previous years.
The SantaCon phenomenon has spread across the country, with thousands of participants attending events nationwide. While it may not be without its controversies, the event remains a unique celebration that showcases the city’s creativity and generosity during the holiday season.
Source: https://www.sfgate.com/sf-culture/article/best-photos-sf-santacon-2024-19969929.php