Largest Professional Santa Gathering and Major Motion Picture Join Forces

Santa Claus is coming to Gatlinburg! In fact, hundreds of them, with Mrs. Clauses, elves and the reindeer, too.

From March 14 through 16, the major convention of real and designer bearded Santas will meet to commiserate and learn more about their craft. Join hundreds of Santa Clauses and Mrs. Clauses as they gather at the Convention Center for their 2010 convention, trade show and gala. Real-bearded and designer-bearded Santas and even those who have never donned the red suit (but think they might like to) are welcome, regardless of experience, affiliation or interest.

Both Santas and Mrs. Clauses will also have serious classes that will advise them of such things as wardrobe techniques and how to be an effective part of Santa’s appearances and visits. Reindeer Owners will also be meeting to discuss their season. It will look a lot like Christmas in March as attendees participate in workshops, exhibits, entertainment, vendors showcases and even a parade fill the agenda.

There will also be a Holly & Shamrock Gala on Tuesday evening.

This year’s event is closely tied with the upcoming epic motion picture, Nicholas of Myra, the story on the life and times of St. Nicholas. Writer/director, Gerald Hartke, and lead actor, Matthew Mesler, are Grand Marshals of the Holly & Shamrock Parade at 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 13.

            The public has the opportunity to attend the Santa Showcase on the main floor of the Gatlinburg Convention Center on Tuesday, March 16 as well as other events, including a fashion show and tube races at Ober Gatlinburg. For more information, visit www.celebratesantafestival.com and click on the For The Public tab.