Downtown Ocean appeared to have been taken over by the man in the big red suit this past Saturday, December 17^th. Approximately 88 Santa’s paraded from the ‘dead shark’ at the OC inlet, to the giant cedar totem pole, then to the jetty, and onward to the bars. Those Santa’s were part of a non-denominational, non-commercial, non-political, and non-sensical Santa Claus convention that occurs once a year for absolutely no reason. This convention, first of its kind in Ocean City, is known world-wide as Santa Con.

The jolly sea of red marched along the boardwalk to Wicomico Street. The spirited bunch went from boardwalk to bar, bar to bar, bar to boardwalk jingling all the way. Many nice Santa’s handed out candy as they ventured down the frigid winter boardwalk. Admiring children enjoyed candy lipsticks, teddy bears, lollipops, and candy canes distributed by numerous Santa’s.

After a few poses for the camera, a Tebow-ing session for football enthusiasts, and some costume readjusting, the Santa’s made their way to The Cork Bar. The big, burly bartenders there were more than hospitable to their seasonal guests. The clan traveled west to The Bearded Clam where the jukebox was blaring holiday tunes and the carolers were singing. Christina & Ari then welcomed the group to The Pour House and offered $1 Santa Shot specials. Santa sure seemed to be jolly after a few Natural Lights, too. Next stop? De Lazy Lizard on 1st Street. This bayside bar is where many of the Santa’s seemed to disappear.

How many stops could a Santa make on one Santa Con bar crawl? Some Santa’s went home to relax and roast chestnuts by the fire, others went to work Christmas parties in full garb, some went to a charity event in North Ocean City, and one was even spotted walking along Ocean Parkway in Ocean Pines. Only a few Santa’s made it until the wee hours of the morning. A lingering group of Santa’s were spotted at Pickle’s Pub at 1:45 am, still jingling and wearing red – even a little red in the face from a 12 block walk. Where are those reindeer when you need a ride?

The first annual Ocean City Santa Con was a success. Good thing Santa has a full week to rest before packing up his sleigh and traveling from roof top to roof top on Christmas Eve. Ocean City must have been good this year – Santa came early with beer, wine, shots, and liquor. Ho, ho, ho, Santa Conians!

Be sure to check out the festive gallery below. Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!