SantaCon Hayward
A Benefit for the Hayward Animal Shelter
Following the success of Hayward’s first SantaCon in 2012, the event is back by popular demandas a fundraiser for the Hayward Animal Shelter and to support and promote Downtown Haywardbusinesses. SantaCon Hayward 2013 is scheduled for Saturday, December 7 from 6:00 p.m. until11:00 p.m.
Started in Copenhagen in 1974, SantaCon is now a worldwide phenomenon with annual, public,mass gatherings of people dressed as Santa Claus. Akin to a flash mob, the focus is on fun,festive cheer and goodwill. More than 300 locations in 41 countries will host a SantaCon eventin 2013.
Hayward’s is the only SantaCon in Alameda County. In 2012, a small group of friends, inspiredby SantaCon events elsewhere, decided to don Santa costumes and meet for a Holidaycelebration. Word spread and friends of friends asked if they could join them.
Good causes benefit substantially. For instance, SantaCon New York 2011 raised $10,000 forToys for Tots and donated more than 6,000 lbs of food to Manhattan and Brooklyn food banks.In 2012, 60 venues that participated in NYC SantaCon donated $45,000 to the Marine Toys forTots Foundation and City Harvest received approximately 6,850 lbs of canned food.
Forty people from throughout the East Bay attended the impromptu SantaCon Hayward 2012event which raised $250 for the Hayward Animal Shelter. Twice as many attendees are expectedon December 7, 2013. Official “Santa Stops” include the World Famous Turf Club, Doc’s WineShop, The Bistro and B Street Bar & Grill. These establishments’ donations and the generoussupport of F.U.N. Sunset Rotary Club, Alta Vista Veterinary Clinic and On Time Signs alreadyexceed what was raised in 2012; so far, $1,000 has been received.
Attendees will have the opportunity to enter the Best Santa/Ms. Santa Suit Contest for prizes.For more details, visit www.SantaCon.info/Hayward-CA, find us on Facebook at “SantaConHayward” or call (510) 886-2662.
SantaCon Hayward
Saturday, December 7
6:00 - 11:00 p.m.
Downtown Hayward
(510) 886-2662
www.SantaCon.info/Hayward-CA
About the Beneficiary
The Hayward Animal Shelter is at 16 Barnes Court, Hayward, and open Tuesday thru Saturdayfrom 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. For holiday hours, call (510) 293-7200. Donations are appreciated andadoptions take place throughout the year. www.HaywardAnimals.org.