y event — the 36th of its kind — are some 130 Santas from 12 nations. The congress agenda includes moves to thwart alleged European Union plans to harmonise Santas` footwear, a campaign for the preservation of reindeer and the crowning of a Santa of honour. During the congress, the Santas and bevies of human snowmen, fairies and other seasonal figures will stage open air Christmas shows with dancing, music, games and chimney climbing contests. Also planned are a ritual paddling session in the Baltic and a procession in veteran cars and fire engines.