NYC In Focus

By Howard Weiss, NYC Photographer

Published on NYC in Focus

Every December, the streets of Manhattan transform into a sea of red, white, and green as SantaCon takes over. Thousands of revelers—dressed as Santas, elves, reindeer, Grinches, and other holiday characters—descend upon the city for one of the most eccentric events of the year. SantaCon NYC 2024 was no exception, blending absurd holiday cheer with charitable giving and a splash of responsible revelry.

This year, I had the privilege of capturing the event through my lens, navigating the bustling streets of Midtown Manhattan and the East Village to document the spectacle. From joyful crowds to quiet moments of reflection, my photos tell the story of SantaCon from a uniquely NYC perspective.

The Start of the Festivities

At 10 a.m. sharp, SantaCon officially kicked off at Broadway and 39th Street. The air was frigid, hovering around freezing, but that didn’t stop thousands of spirited participants from donning their best holiday attire. Some Santas were classic and traditional, while others went bold with creative interpretations—think “cyberpunk Santa” or “gamer elf.”

As the day unfolded, participants spilled into more than 50 participating bars across Manhattan. For a $15 donation, revelers received a “VIP badge,” granting them access to select venues and supporting the event’s charitable mission. While I didn’t personally join the bar crawl, I captured the vibrant energy and creative costumes as the crowds made their way from Midtown to the East Village.

More Than Just a Bar Crawl

SantaCon is about more than partying—it’s also a charitable event. Proceeds from ticket sales are donated to various causes, a tradition that adds depth to the day’s frivolity. However, like many large-scale events, SantaCon isn’t without its controversies. Over the years, critics have questioned how funds are managed, but the overall impact remains positive.

The SantaCon “Code of Conduct” emphasizes respect and responsibility. Participants are reminded to tip generously, be kind to children, and avoid conflicts with police. “Santa is about peace,” the organizers stress—a sentiment that seemed to resonate as I observed the festivities unfold.

The MTA and NYC’s Response

Managing an event of this scale requires careful planning. This year, the MTA enforced a 32-hour alcohol ban on Metro-North and Long Island Rail Road trains and platforms to minimize disruptions. Extra NYPD officers were stationed at Penn Station, Grand Central, and major hubs to maintain order.

On the streets, I captured moments of NYPD officers sharing lighthearted exchanges with Santas—a reminder of the delicate balance between maintaining safety and letting the holiday spirit shine.

A Personal Reflection on SantaCon

While SantaCon is primarily a lighthearted event, it also offers moments for reflection. Last year, I attended a similar event in a smaller city, unsure if it was my “scene.” Now, as a NYC photographer and storyteller, I see these gatherings through a different lens.

SantaCon isn’t just about costumes and cocktails; it’s about community and connection. As I documented the event, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to capture NYC’s essence—a city that embraces both tradition and eccentricity in equal measure.

Moments Worth Highlighting

• The Crowd: Whether it was groups of friends in matching outfits or solo Santas striking a pose, the streets were alive with energy.

• The Costumes: From classic Kris Kringles to avant-garde holiday creations, the creativity was astounding.

• The Small Interactions: Among the chaos, there were quiet moments—a Santa holding the door for a stranger, a Grinch making a child laugh, and spontaneous carol sing-alongs that brought everyone together.

Adding a Visual Story

Throughout the article, I’ll be sharing photos from the event—images that capture the excitement, creativity, and humanity of SantaCon NYC 2024. From wide shots of bustling streets to intimate portraits of participants, these visuals add depth to the story. All photos are by me, Howard Weiss, and you can explore more of my work on NYC in Focus.

What SantaCon Means for NYC

SantaCon is one of those love-it-or-hate-it events that divides New Yorkers. For some, it’s an annual highlight, while others see it as a disruption. But whether you embrace the chaos or steer clear of it, there’s no denying that it’s a uniquely NYC tradition.

For me, SantaCon is a reminder of what makes this city special—the ability to bring people together, even in the most absurd ways, and the resilience to adapt, organize, and celebrate.

Closing Thoughts

As I wrap up this year’s SantaCon coverage, I want to thank everyone who allowed me to capture their festive spirit. Have you attended SantaCon? I’d love to hear your thoughts—share your stories in the comments or connect with me on social media.

For more NYC stories and photography, stay tuned to NYC in Focus. Until next time, happy holidays!