A Jolly Good Time

From all across the United States, Canada and Australia, Santa's helpers began arriving in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and the Sevierville area Sunday for what could be the largest gathering of gentlemen who wear the red suit ever assembled.

"We have a Mrs. Claus who came all the way from Melbourne, Australia, along with Santas from Canada," said Joe More, host of the event. Even with the economy and job losses, More said, "there are approximately 650 Santas and Mrs. Clauses registered so far."

Celebrate Santa 2009 is a three-day extravaganza of workshops, classes, entertainment and camaraderie for a host of helpers.

Lou Knezevich, from near Atlanta, Ga., came to the gathering to share his knowledge and learn from others.

"One of the greatest benefits of Santa's helpers getting together is enriching the knowledge and presentation of each and every Santa," Knezevich said. "The richness and diversity of the gentlemen who portray Santa can benefit each and every one here."

The festivities include a first-ever Holly & Shamrock Parade on St. Patrick's Day. The parade will feature hundreds of Santa's helpers, Mrs. Clauses, elves, reindeer and Leprechauns, along with a host of costumed characters led by St. Nicholas & St. Patrick.

Host hotels were filling with the jolly gentlemen in red, and their friends and families Sunday afternoon. During a meet and greet at the Park Vista Hotel and Convention Center in Gatlinburg there was a sea of red as Santas, elves and Mrs. Clauses greeted each other, renewing old friendships, meeting new friends and looking forward to the days ahead.

"This was my sixth year as Santa and I am thrilled to be here," said Jim Hudson, of Boston Heights, Ohio. He said that until a couple of years ago he had no idea there were Santa organizations or gatherings.

"This is my first large gathering and it is overwhelming," Hudson said.

An opening ceremony will begin the day Monday. After the ceremony will be the start of classes featuring hair and beard care, professional makeup for Santas, the history of Santa Claus, working with the deaf, classes geared specifically for Mrs. Claus, and everything you would want to know about reindeer by the Reindeer Owners and Breeders Association.