Kris Kringle Goes to Boot Camp

Let's say your laughter can make your belly jiggle like a bowl full of jelly. And you can "ho ho ho" better than the rest. But are you really Santa material?

Perhaps not in Germany. Here, it takes more than a long white beard, some extra poundage and belted red suit to play Kris Kringle at Christmas parties.

Wannabe Santas have to adhere to a strict code of conduct if they want to be a part of Berlin's top Santa Claus provider Heinzelmännchen, which sends around 500 Santas to ten times as many parties throughout the holiday season.

Strict requirements for Santas

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To ensure that all St. Nicks adhere to the strict images of the world's leading gift-bearer, the agency holds a boot camp for jolly old fat men interested in making lists and checking them twice.

Unlike those movie-images of boozy shopping mall Santas, these purveyors of Christmas cheer at local parties aren't allowed to drink, eat, swear or smoke while in costume. No using the bathroom, either, lest it ruin the children's image of the jolly old fellow.

To pass boot camp, Santa likewise has to be well-versed in carol singing and knee bouncing and he absolutely must don white gloves.

Other musts: a sack to hold presents, a shiny bell and, most importantly of all, a list of who's been naughty and who's been nice.