Well, Ho Ho Ho, and Happy Holidays from yours truly, Santa! As I gear up for another season of spreading joy, I wanted to share some of my favorite spots in Richmond with all you good little boys, girls, and non-binary folx out there. After all, even Santa needs a break to indulge in some treats and explore the vibrant queer community in this beautiful city.

Let's start with the essentials: treats! Santa's sweet tooth is no secret, and two places that always hit the spot are Whisk and Michaela's Bakery. Picture this – a good ole’ 6-layer chocolate cake that brings back the nostalgic vibe of Thalhimers. It's the stuff that sugarplum visions are made of!

Now, when it comes to finding gifts as special as snowflakes, Richmond has some hidden gems. World of Mirth and Mongrel are my go-to places for unique goodies. They have the perfect selections for those on your nice list who are a tad tricky to shop for during the holidays. You'll be sure to discover something delightful and unexpected.

What's a holiday without stocking stuffers? For The Love of Chocolate in Carytown is the go-to spot for delectable chocolates and other goodies. It's a sweet tooth's paradise and the perfect place to snag those last-minute treats for the stockings.

Now, for the music lovers out there – Santa always finds his groove at Crossroads Records in Stony Point Fashion Park. Whether you're into new releases or hunting for that rare vinyl gem, this place has it all. Plus, they have a fantastic collection of music-inspired gifts that are perfect for any jingle bell enthusiast on your list.

When Santa needs a bit of entertainment, Richmond delivers in spades. The Annual Richmond Christmas Parade, classic holiday films at The Byrd Theatre, and the enchanting Nutcracker performance by the Richmond Ballet are all on my list. And let's not forget the local drag performances and the hilarious SCROOGE IN ROUGE at the Richmond Triangle Players – pure holiday magic!

For those on the naughty list, the annual Krampus Walk in Carytown is a must-see. But my absolute favorite? Soaring over Richmond in my sleigh and witnessing the breathtaking (Tacky) light displays that adorn this charming city. It truly warms my jolly old heart.

Santa Sightings Around Richmond

Now, dear readers, if you're wondering where you can catch a glimpse of yours truly during this festive season, fear not! You can find me spreading cheer at various events across Richmond, from parades to community gatherings.

In addition to the market and variety show at Diversity Richmond (pictured above), you can join me and the talented St. John's Players at our Christmas Cabaret – an evening filled with joy, laughter, and heartwarming performances. It's a fantastic opportunity to get into the holiday spirit surrounded by the warmth of community and creativity.

If you're looking for a spiritual way to usher in Christmas, consider joining the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at St. John's United Church of Christ, a welcoming haven for the LGBTQ+ community that opens its doors to everyone. They extend a heartfelt invitation to you to embrace the magic of Christmas in a space that celebrates diversity, love, and acceptance.

As we approach the most wonderful time of the year, let's remember the true spirit of Christmas – love, inclusivity, and joy. May your holiday season be filled with moments of warmth, connection, and inclusivity. and the knowledge that you're part of a community that values and embraces you. Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

With festive cheer, Santa 🎅

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