Santa Claus and Grandfather Frost in Amusement Parks: Anthropology of an Attraction The appearance of Santa Claus and Grandfather Frost in amusement parks (thematic ones, such as Disneyland, "Happy Hills" or "Dream Island") is not just seasonal decor but a complex process of cultural adaptation of mythological characters to the space of mass, commercial leisure. Here, they cease to be domestic magicians and become key elements of the experience industry, subject to its laws. Transformation of Functions: From Gift-giver to Attraction In a domestic or shopping and entertainment environment (malls), the main function is communicative and ritualistic: listen to a wish, take a photo, hand over a gift. In an amusement park, this function is supplemented and transformed. Function as "live decoration" and navigator. Santa/Grandfather Frost is integrated into the overall thematic zoning of the park. He does not just sit in a cabin but can move along a specific route (parade, march), becoming a mobile point of attraction and a landmark. His presence creates an immersive atmospheric effect, enhancing the immersion in the "winter fairy tale" even in a warm climate. Character-actor in a script-based show. In the park, he becomes part of a staged performance with a plot. For example, the "Rescue Christmas" show, where Grandfather Frost, along with the park heroes, stands against evil forces (the Witch, the Snow Queen). This turns him from a static symbol into a protagonist of dynamic action, which corresponds to the genre laws of the park. Object of pilgrimage. The cabin or throne of Santa/Grandfather Frost becomes the culmination point of a route through a festively decorated zone of the park. Visiting and posing for photos with him is an obligatory ritual, a quest goal for a family. This is a marketing move that increases the guest's stay in the park and creates unique content for social media. A Scientific Approach to "Magic": Experience Engineering The work of Santa Claus and ... Read more