Santa to touch down early in H.B.

With a multicultural celebration at Old World Village and Santa Claus sightings expected throughout the city, the holiday season is coming to life in Huntington Beach.

In a celebration of holiday diversity, the Old World shopping, dining and entertainment center will hold its 12th annual International Celebration of Christmas and live nativity play at 6 p.m. Dec. 15 in the festival hall.

The event focuses on how “different cultures celebrate Christmas,” said Old World German Restaurant owner Cyndie Kasko.

The celebration will feature song and dance performances from a variety of churches and include the traditions of Israel, Jamaica, Native Americans and Samoans.

The play is free to the public. Organizers are asking for donations to World Vision, an organization that provides agricultural assistance, livestock and a means of self-support to families in need.

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Santa appearances around town

With Christmas just weeks away, Santa Claus is making his list and checking it twice even while making a few early visits.

“He loves Huntington Beach; it’s his favorite place to come,” said Susan Welfringer, Huntington Beach Downtown Business Improvement District manager.

Santa will be stopping by from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays in downtown Huntington Beach.

He will be sitting for free photo opportunities at the Christmas tree in front of the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory.

On Dec. 17, St. Nick will be accompanied by six princesses for an “enchanted princess party” downtown.

The Huntington Beach Lions Club will host Santa Claus at its pancake breakfast Dec. 14 at the Murdy Community Center.

The Lions will be seating breakfast guests at 8:30 and 9:30 a.m. Pancakes, sausage, orange juice and milk will be offered.

Tickets for the breakfast are $5 and must be purchased before the event at any of the city’s community centers.

Santa will also make appearances from noon to 4 p.m.Saturdays through Dec. 21 at the Bella Terra shopping center. He will be walking around, offering to pose for photos and handing out free goody bags for kids, according to Bella Terra’s website.