‘Father Christmas’ is Back on the Streets of Portland for Photos

A Black version of Santa Claus, calling himself “Father Christmas” is back on the Streets of Portland. Vice President of the NAACP and local Pastor of Celebration Tabernacle Church, E.D. Mondainé has taken up the mantle of dressing up as Father Christmas, when his brother (who seemed much more fitting), John Tolbert - GM of Po’Shines Cafe De La Soul decided not to do it a second year in a row. Mondainé reluctant, but excepting of the challenge. This is Mondainé’s second year playing Father Christmas and this year he’s documenting his experience.

“Kids get the image and accept it”, says Mondainé after meeting little Juanito in a North Portland Laundry mat that Father Christmas just so happened to stop by. “It’s the looks and comments from the parents that’s so alarming, it’s when a child wants to come see me and the parent pulls them away. I have to remind myself not to take it personal, but that’s what made me want to do it again and document my experience”, says Mondainé. 

You can catch Father Christmas at these following locations for a $10 Donation, you’ll not only get a picture with Father Christmas, but also a Music CD of Christmas songs from him as well. All proceeds go to the Teach Me To Fish Program, that also supports Po’Shines Cafe De La Soul in North Portland. 

Father Christmas Sightings: 

• 21st / 4:30pm @ Kenton Rose Garden (Across from The Victorian Belle Mansion)
• Dec.22nd & 23rd / 4:30 - 7:30pm @ Pioneer Courthouse Sq. (Across from Starbucks Coffee) 
• Dec. 23rd / 1:30-3:30pm @ Po’Shines Cafe De La Soul (8139 N Denver Ave. 97217)