Santa Claus to Arrive by boat in Kleve This Evening,Kicking off Christmas Market Festivities
KLEVE,GERMANY – November 24,2023 – Kleve residents are preparing to welcome Santa Claus as he arrives by boat at the Königsgarten pier around 5:45 p.m. this evening, marking the conventional start of the Klever christmas market season. The arrival, a beloved annual event, will see Santa transported via carriage along a festive route through the town center.
The spectacle, orchestrated by WTM Managing Director Verena Rohde and a dedicated team, is a cornerstone of KleveS holiday traditions, bringing joy to families and signaling the official opening of the Christmas market. This year’s event builds on decades of tradition while incorporating new elements, offering a cherished experience for both long-time residents and visitors. Santa will proceed along the new riverside path, passing the town hall, An der Münze, Große Straße, and Kavarinerstraße before arriving at the Christmas market.
Accompanying Santa will be the Wissel dune orchestra and a torchlight procession led by the Kleve volunteer and youth fire departments. Upon reaching the market, Santa will greet children and families and distribute traditional Weckmanns – sweet bread treats – baked by local bakeries Reffeling and Heicks & Teutenberg.
“I am looking forward to experiencing this special event – from Santa Claus’ arrival on the water to his arrival at the Christmas market – together with parents,grandparents and children,” said Rohde.
The event’s success relies on the support of numerous volunteers and sponsors, including Zevens Grundimmobilien, Sparkasse Rhein Maas, Prowerb, Volksbank Kleverland, Tobacco & More, van Heesch Feuerschutz, and Stadtwerke Kleve. Organizers Heinz ververs, Klaus Venhofen, Peter van Uhm, Sven Verfondern, Klaus Fischer, and Christof van schrick expressed their gratitude for this vital support.
