
Inspiration
Santa Claus
A few great ideas to enjoy a very merry ChristmasLet’s a quick ride around Lake Annecy in Santa’s sleigh for the Christmas holidays
Christmastime means that anything is possible, that childlike dreams can suddenly come true; it is a time of year full of so many wonderful surprises. Out of the blue, we succeeded in scheduling an interview with the one, the only, the unbelievable, and the truly remarkable Santa Claus himself!
And he shared with us a few great ideas to enjoy a very Merry Christmas.

© Françoise Cavazzana
The Christmas holidays are just around the corner, could you share with us the places that you think everyone should visit?
You know, as an old man, I usually try to stay out of the limelight. The one exception is during this time of year when I poke my head outside, and I must say that you are pretty lucky. This beautiful area has so many Christmas markets overflowing with that wonderful Christmas spirit I love so much.
Walking around, carving out the time, drinking hot apple cider while eating roasted chestnuts, marveling at the Christmas lights in town decorating Annecy’s most iconic buildings: Notre Dame de Liesse Church, Palais de l’Isle, the Faubourg Sainte-Claire clock tower to name a few. Skating at the ice rink in Seynod, seeing a show, listening to the melodious sounds of an outdoor concert, or simply heading out to enjoy the food, there are so many ways to experience the magic of Christmas.
Hop in my sleigh and let’s go for a ride!

© Peignée Verticale – C. Hudry
Where are we going?
Let’s start with Noël des Alpes (Christmas in the Alps, through January 6), which spreads Christmas cheer throughout its markets in downtown Annecy, Annecy-le-Vieux, Cran-Gevrier, Meythet, Seynod, and Pringy. Everywhere they organize shows, concerts, and workshops that offer the chance to gather and spend a great time with others.
Take a walk through downtown Annecy, along the cobblestone streets of Old Town, along the lake, beneath the mountains, and remember to visit the villages and iconic locations in the area. This includes the tinsel-decorated chalets you see just about everywhere, the Gallic Christmas market in Vieugy (December 8-10), the Christmas Market for local artists and artisans at the Imperial Palace Hotel (December 15-17), they all offer so many unique surprises to enjoy.
You can also come to meet me at the Village du Père Noël / Santa Claus’s Village in Square des Martyrs de la Deportation plaza on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, from 11:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 17:00, through December 24. Hey kids, don’t miss the arts and crafts workshops from 15:00-17:00 on the very same days; make a souvenir that you can take home with you and hang on your Christmas tree!

© Peignée Verticale – C. Hudry
Is it true that you have also set up a winter workshop at Menthon Castle?
Yes I have. Through January 6, you can come say hello to me in one of the the alcoves and gardens at the Château du Père Noël (Santa Claus’s Castle) in Menthon-Saint-Bernard. I know, I have great taste, right? And this lofty perch provides me with an amazing and strategic view of the area.
In such a magnificent location, time seems to stands still, and even move backwards through the centuries! In the halls of the castle during a magical guided tour, on the terrace with local artists and artisans, at the ice rink, or in the gourmet food court, we welcome families every day with a mix of shows and concerts. In my workshop, children can let their creativity run free: balls, cookies, crowns, recycling wrapping paper… my elves will show you all the tricks of the trade.
Don’t miss the treasure hunt either. Help me find my favorite wish list and remember to stop at the Orangerie to listen to a wonderfully captivating story or fairytale.

© Le Nec Studio
Could you share with us a few shows that you think everyone should go see?
During the Christmas holidays, there are a few festivals that I really like:
- Au tour des enfants/Hey kids, it’s your turn (through December 17): attend a wide variety of shows for all ages and preferences organized in partnership with the area’s theater and performance groups.
- The Octopus festival (December 23 through January 4): take advantage of every type of show you can imagine, from theater to clowns, from comedy to drama, and most were written with kids in mind.
- The Imperial Christmas Festival (December 26-28): enjoy three nights of concerts and theater, including jazz, classical music, and a show for the entire family.
And remember to visit the museums, libraries, and youth centers that plan to organize storytelling hours, musical concerts, plays, and magic shows, offering so many great opportunities to share in the Christmas spirit.

© Peignée Verticale – C. Hudry
To create a more inclusive, charitable Christmas, what do you recommend?
Christmas is, above all else, a time when we think of and do things for others. My team of elves has never lost sight of what counts the most. Everyone should participate in the gift drive at Santa Claus’s Castle by donating a used toy. Place it under the tree to help brighten up Christmas for children all over the world. Last year we received more than 500 donated toys that made Christmastime a happy one for hundreds of children.
Make the effort contact local non-profits who work every day to help others: Restos du Coeur (soup kitchens), the Banque Alimentaire (food bank), Secours Populaire (Salvation Army), the Annecy Entraide Solidaire network run by the City of Annecy, along with many other organizations that collect and distribute donated foodstuffs as well as “Christmas gift boxes” the less fortunate.
Giving a bit of your time and thinking of others should also be an integral part of your holiday schedule. Santa swears by it!

© Peignée Verticale – C. Hudry
I think that people are waiting for you, do you have any last words to share?
Remember that all of these ideas serve one overall goal: for you to spend time with others, to put smiles on everyone’s faces, and to spread joy and happiness everywhere for everyone to share. Dream, listen, help each other, and be happy.
Santa Claus’s philosophy… Take part in the magic…

© Peignée Verticale – C. Hudry
Another story
Copyright:
- © Le Nec Studio / Le Château du Père Noël
Journalist: Gaëlle Tagliabue
Translation: Darin Reisman