CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Christmas is over but an international version of Santa stopped by Millennium Park Saturday afternoon.
"We are bright. We are cheerful. We are very friendly and we want to gift everybody good news," said one of the men who dressed in charater as Ded Moroz.
Ded Moroz, or Grandpa Frost, is the Russian equivalent of Santa Claus created after Soviet Russia banned Christmas in 1929.
Ded Moroz and his granddaughter Snegurochka celebrate winter wonder without the religious connotation.
"He wants happiness for everybody. He wants peace for the world," the man dressed as Ded Moroz continued.
The Soviet-era Santas have long white beards, wear red and blue robes and carry a magic staff.
Chicago resident Anna Troshina organized the event after participating in a flash mob event in New York City.
"Everybody celebrates the new year in their own way, in their tradition and we decided to celebrate our way," said Troshina.
This is the third year Troshina and her festive friends have shared the culture of Ded Moroz and spread holiday cheer in Chicago.
Russian Santas have taken over Millennium Park! Ded Moroz (Grandpa Frost) is helping Chicago celebrate the new year by spreading holiday cheer! @WBBMNewsradio pic.twitter.com/2XcRINxiMO
— Rachel Pierson (@WBBMRachel) December 28, 2019



