MANCHESTER, NH – Nobody is lukewarm when it comes to “Creepy Santa.” And for the most part, the beloved iconic holiday figure that for 35 years has towered over the Rheaume family’s Christmas tree stand on Elm Street, has gained a growing mob of followers, not to mention celebrity status.
On Wednesday night, Creepy Santa got his own day on the city calendar when Mayor Jay Ruais read an official Resolution declaring Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) forever more to be known as Creepy Santa Day in the city of Manchester.
The initiative was led by Jen Drociak, a longtime fan of all things weird and wonderful, who has created a line of apparel under the brand Love Manchester to commemorate other equally uniquely-Manchester icons.
She has not created a Creepy Santa shirt because she didn’t want to encroach on the Rheaume family’s efforts – they sell their own branded gear and donate the proceeds to local charities.
According to the resolution, read before the Board of Aldermen prior to the start of Wednesday’s meeting, the Creepy Santa figure was purchased by Reggie Rheaume when he started his business – it was one of only eight made in the U.S.
Every year, when Creepy Santa takes his place at the family Christmas tree stand, fans are quick to follow, posing for selfies and group photos, bringing the smiles, laughter, joy – and “maybe a few healthy night terrors” to all.
Thanks to Drociak for capturing the moment from her home TV screen and sharing it – you can watch below (note: low volume).
