On Christmas Eve, This Florida’s Space Coast Destination Sees Surfing Santas

On Christmas Eve, Santa arrives in Florida’s Cocoa Beach in a different way – on a surfboard.

2022 is welcoming the 14th year of “Surfing Santas,” a gathering of wave riders decked out in their holiday finest to raise funds for two local nonprofits, the Florida Surf Museum and Grind for Life.

“Surfing Santas” started on Christmas Eve 2009 as a small family outing. George Trosset and his son, George Jr., and his daughter-in-law, Britteny, decided to go surfing in South Cocoa Beach dressed up as Santa Claus and his elves.

“When a photo of their antics hit the front page of a Florida newspaper, others wanted to join in on the fun,” said Meagan Happel, Florida’s Space Coast Office of Tourism’s public relations manager and film commissioner.

Having evolved into a charity event, “Surfing Santas” 2022 kicks off on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 8 a.m. along Cocoa Beach near the beach’s 2 Minutemen Causeway. The event is expected to continue until the early afternoon.

“It is held on Christmas Eve morning because ‘the Big Guy’ has a lot of work to do that night,” said Happel about the event. “Rumor has it, surfing is his favorite pastime to relax to get ready for the big day. And it’s no secret his favorite place to relax for the big day.”

The public can join in on this day, to0. According to Happel, attendance to “Surfing Santas” is free and anyone can participate. “Just show up and have fun dressed in your favorite Christmas attire.”

Surfers often come wearing a Christmas or wintery-themed wardrobe, often resembling Santa or Mrs. Claus, a snowman or a gingerbread man, elves or even reindeer; “Surfing Santas” also features a costume contest with contestants having a chance at winning prizes in various categories.

While “Surfing Santas” involves being on the water, the permitted gear is not limited to surfboards. Some participants ride in on boards of all kinds-from boogie to SUPs-and even jet skies.

Happel noted that it’s possible to see “Santas” jumping out of helicopters into the water. Attendees might also recognize Doug Flutie, the former football player and local resident who is a longtime “Surfing Santa” participant.

Money is raised for both the Florida Surf Museum and Grind for Life through the sale of t-shirts. To date, the event has raised more than $200,000 for these organizations. For the 2022 edition of “Surfing Santas,” there will be a raffle of a 1996 Toyota Hilux “Surf” SUV. Tickets cost $20 for one ticket or $100 for six.