Set up in 2018 by a mother in search of positive Black representation at Christmastime for her children, Noir Kringle offers a full-on grotto experience with a Black Santa. This is no rushed meet-and-greet, either – kids will have 90 minutes to explore the grotto and take part in activities, like making Mrs Kringle’s reindeer food, attending a mini elf school and a group hang with Mr Kringle aka the Black Santa himself. The little ones will get to share their Christmas wish list with Mr Kringle, receive a gift to take home and be able to pose for some snaps with him too. It sounds super fun, but also an important step towards introducing more diversity into Christmas and extending inclusion to (whisper it) fictional characters.
Note that children of all ethnicities are equally welcome: the object is to present a more diverse view of Christmas, not to shut anyone out.