Christmas in July: Santa and Elves Bring Festive Cheer to Summer Market

Lombardsijde, a coastal town near Middelkerke, Belgium, experienced an unusual blend of seasons as Santa Claus and his elves made an appearance at the final summer evening market. The festive event, organized by the proprietors of local establishment café De Sterre, aimed to inject a dose of Christmas cheer into the heart of summer.

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A Christmas party in the summer, strange? I've seen a lot in my life, so this doesn't seem that strange to me.

Attendees were treated to a winter wonderland setup, complete with a snow cannon that dusted the market with artificial snow, and the sounds of beloved Christmas carols filled the air. Children had the opportunity to pose for photos with Santa, adding to the magical atmosphere.

Santa himself, portrayed by an actor, expressed his amusement at the concept, noting that after years of spreading holiday cheer, a summer Christmas party didn't seem too outlandish. "I've seen a lot in my life, so this doesn't seem that strange to me," he remarked. Christmas elf Ann Coulier echoed this sentiment, highlighting the initiative's potential to lift spirits, especially for those who might feel somber during the traditional holiday season.

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During Christmas, many feel a bit somber. They think of people who are no longer there. Because of this, they cannot fully enjoy Christmas. It's nice that people can come out on the street during the summer and celebrate Christmas.

However, the future of this unique summer celebration remains uncertain. Tamara Cicou of café De Sterre indicated that the event might be the last of its kind, as Christoon Christophe D'Hondt, the driving force behind the festivities, is considering retiring from organizing such events. The community awaits news on whether the summer Christmas tradition will continue.

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Christoon (Christophe D'Hondt) is stopping. I don't know yet if we will continue it.