Each December, a man from Northern Denmark steps into the red suit and white beard, earning nearly 90,000 kroner as the region’s most dedicated Santa Claus.
The Man Behind the Beard
In Northern Jutland, one man has turned spreading holiday joy into a full-time December operation. Working under the name “Santa Claus,” but known off-duty as Peter Gislund, he has spent the past 20 years bringing Christmas magic to kindergartens, senior homes, and local markets across Aalborg.
Every year, the start of the season means packed calendars and careful planning. Gislund’s weeks are mapped down to the minute. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday mornings begin with kindergarten visits at 9:30, 11:00, and 12:30. By afternoon, he walks among the stalls at the Aalborg Christmas market on Gammeltorv, waving to children and chatting with families.
Early Mornings and Holiday Preparations
Santa’s day starts long before the rest of the city awakens. At five in the morning, Gislund begins his meticulous grooming process, making sure his beard curls perfectly and his suit shines. The routine includes hair washing, shaping, a touch of wax, and even a light spray of glitter to make sure every appearance looks picture-perfect.
By the time the first children see him, he has already spent hours preparing. Over four weeks, he visits between 30 and 40 kindergartens, where the glow of children’s faces keeps his energy alive. In a country known for its strong Christmas traditions, such as the Danish way to celebrate Christmas, these small moments carry deep cultural meaning.
Despite the long hours, Gislund insists that the joy is mutual. He brings holiday cheer to kids and adults alike, creating memories that define the Danish winter spirit.
A Lucrative Holiday Gig
After weeks of performances, appearances, and festive smiles, the effort pays off in more ways than one. By the end of December, Peter Gislund earns approximately 90,000 kroner. His hourly rate sits around 1,200 kroner, though it often changes depending on the event. Some performances at kindergartens are done free of charge to keep the magic accessible to all.
That extra Christmas money goes directly to his account, bringing him financial comfort during the cold season. While his colleagues in Zealand may charge higher fees, Gislund takes pride in his balance of purpose and passion. For him, the income is only part of a much bigger picture—a way to continue the craft he loves.
Keeping It Family-Friendly
Interestingly, Gislund draws a line at certain events. Despite invitations for company parties or “J-Day” beer celebrations, he refuses to bring Santa into those scenes. For him, the Danish Santa remains a wholesome, friendly figure. “Santa doesn’t belong where there’s drinking or loud parties,” he often explains. “He should never smell of beer.”
His focus stays on families, children, and community gatherings—the heart of Danish Christmas life. Maintaining that image keeps the role authentic and true to tradition, especially in a society where Christmas remains a symbol of warmth and togetherness.
The Spirit of December
Being Santa in Denmark is about more than the red suit. It is about consistency, kindness, and capturing a sense of wonder that many still carry from childhood. Gislund’s work connects generations, reminding locals what the season is really about.
As the month winds down, the calendar clears, and the red coat is packed away for another year. Still, for one man in Northern Denmark, the stories, laughter, and sparkling eyes he meets along the way prove that playing Santa is not just a job. It is a calling that continues to bring joy, both to himself and the hundreds who cross his path each winter.
Sources and References
The Danish Dream: How does Denmark celebrate Christmas?
The Danish Dream: Banking in Denmark for foreigners (Updated 2025)
TV2: Julemand tjener 90.000 kroner i december
