December 25th sees families around the world celebrating Christmas, but the days leading up to it are equally festive, particularly with the observance of National Santa Claus Day. Various events across Japan showcased this holiday spirit, providing opportunities for joy, laughter, and community bonding centered around the beloved figure of Santa Claus.
One touching celebration took place at the Oki Nursery School on December 20th, where children were treated to surprise visits from Santa Claus, courtesy of local volunteers acting through the Japan Lions Club. This heartwarming initiative aimed to uplift the spirits of children affected by natural disasters, like earthquakes and heavy rains. Six Santa Clauses and reindeer made their appearance, singing carols and handing out gifts to thrilled children.
Among the excited children at Wajima's Umihososhi Kindergarten, one young girl exclaimed, "I got crayons and Anpanman biscuits! Santa came to see us, and I felt so happy!" Many children expressed joy alongside their comments about the lovely songs they sang with the guests. Volunteer leader Hiroto Tada expressed his satisfaction, stating, "Seeing the smiling faces of the children gave us energy as well. We aimed to make them smile, and it worked!"
Meanwhile, Osaka hosted its own festive extravaganza with the Grand Santa Parade, which took place on December 19th. Around 300 participants donned Santa costumes, spreading Christmas cheer throughout the Umedita area. They not only distributed presents but also organized clean-up efforts, fostering community spirit and awareness of environmental issues. The parade marked the beginning of holiday festivities, combining entertainment and charitable efforts.
During the event, organizers urged participants to think about their responsibilities toward the community and the environment. The Santa participants, divided between clean-up, gift-giving, and greeting roles, were seen engaging with shoppers and tourists exuberantly. “I was surprised to see so many Santas!” exclaimed one delighted visitor. “The lighting decorations made the Christmas mood even more festive.”
For the little ones, meeting Santa meant receiving gifts, but adults and children were equally delighted. The event culminated with participants gathering at the base of the enormous Christmas tree at Grands Front Osaka, which stands about 10 meters tall, creating a picturesque moment to capture.For the little ones, meeting Santa meant receiving gifts, but adults and children were equally delighted. The event culminated with participants gathering at the base of the enormous Christmas tree at Grands Front Osaka, which stands about 10 meters tall, creating a picturesque moment to capture.
Not far away, Izumo City held its own unique Santa event on December 20th. Children at Tai-sha Nursery School were treated to rides on a human-drawn cart, with Santa and reindeer delivering presents. One delighted child, six-year-old Mifuyu Tomita, chirped, "It was fun riding on the cart, and meeting the kind Santa made me very happy!" Taro Itoga, representing the company operating the cart, mentioned this annual event was aimed at making children smile, emphasizing the joy brought by such interactions.
Simultaneously, the Nasu area hosted its own creative celebration, where around 100 employees dressed as Santa participated in bowling activities as part of their annual gathering. This event promotes team bonding among staff from various leisure facilities and hotels, who rarely meet otherwise. A zoo employee remarked, “It was wonderful to enjoy some fun and laughter with colleagues from different facilities.” This spirit is what local leaders like Koichi Oowaki, chairman of the Nasu District Hotel & Leisure Facility Council, aimed to promote: community togetherness and the joy of hospitality.
This year, these events reflect how festivities can uplift spirits, encourage community engagement, and create cherished memories for both children and adults. National Santa Claus Day events around Japan serve as powerful reminders of the joy of giving, sharing, and celebrating together, regardless of age. There’s something truly magical about the spirit of Santa Claus bringing hope and happiness during the Christmas season.
With each smile and every cheerful interaction, the true essence of Christmas shines through, uniting communities under the joyous banner of the holiday season
