Surfing Santas hit waves again after going virtual due to COVID pandemic

COCOA BEACH, Fla. – Before bringing those on the nice list their gifts for Christmas, Santa(s) will be riding the waves of Cocoa Beach to celebrate the holidays.

Surfing Santas will once again return to Cocoa Beach on Friday, Dec. 24, after going virtual last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

[TRENDING: Become a News 6 Insider (it’s free!)]

“Over the past decade, Surfing Santas has grown into one of the most unique and fun-filled charity events the world has ever seen. This congregation of costumed kahunas has grown to record-breaking numbers with over 800 Surfing Santas and nearly 10,000 spectators,” the event’s website reads.

The group’s founder, George Trosset, attests that this event is something beachgoers should look forward to.

“Surfing Santas is the most fun you can have on the beach,’’ founder George Trosset said.

When the 2020 event was scaled back, Trosset vowed that in 2021, not only would Surfing Santas return to normal, but it would be the biggest event ever.

Trosset said Surfing Santas will stick to that plan, despite a new variant keeping the country fighting the virus for a second holiday season.

‘’We’re full steam ahead,’’ the original surfing Santa said. ‘’I think it’s going to be our biggest crowd ever.’’

The Surfing Santas event benefits The Florida Surf Museum and Grind for Life, according to the event’s website.

Surfer Calvin Holland said he’s looking forward to the big turnout.

‘’You wake up Christmas Eve, put on a Santa hat or whatever you got,’’ he said. ‘’It’s awesome to see so many people coming to town so yeah, I’m pumped it’s still cruising on,’’ Holland said.

In addition to the surfing, there will also be a costume contest for the following categories: infants 0-3 years old, children from 4-15 years old, groups of two people or more, men 16 years and older and women 16 years and older. The winners will receive a gift package and a two-night hotel stay in Port Canaveral.

Space Coast-themed shirts that feature Santa in Space will be sold at the event as well as available for online purchase.