'Surfing Santas' ride the Christmas Eve waves
STORY: The event, now in its 15th year, draws hundreds of surfers and onlookers, with many dressing in elaborate Christmas beach gear. What organizers say began as a simple family beach day has grown into a beloved tradition for both locals and visitors, with its distinctive blend of Florida sunshine and Christmas spirit.
Surfing Santa Day founder George Trosset told Reuters it was a chance for people to leave their worries and politics behind. “No-one’s complaining about Donald Trump. No-one’s whining about Joe Biden. Everybody’s here to have a good time, and it’s happening right now,” Trosset said.
Elven surfer Zack Spurlock described enjoying the "small-town feel" of the event. "The gathering of people from near and far, seeing familiar faces and everyone that you see is happy to see you. So, I mean, it’s high fives, it’s hugs, it’s pictures. It’s all the good vibes of Christmas.”
Participants and spectators enjoyed live music, a costume contest, and, of course, watched the Surfing Santas ride the waves.
