[image id="9262" title="rockport tropical christmas" class="size-medium wp-image-19915" width="300" height="275" ] Santa sports a tan at the Rockport Tropical Christmas celebration Dec. 7.

IT'S A TROPICAL CHRISTMAS IN ROCKPORT DEC. 7 — Santa vacations in Rockport? Who knew! Come by the Tropical Christmas Festival in Rockport Dec. 7 and you'll meet tropical Santa soaking up some island life before heading back to the North Pole. From 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., the Downtown Heritage District and the Rockport Harbor area, will be decked out in festive finery, ready to ring in the season.

The family fun includes live music, dancers, "Where's the Treasure" pirate show, a Marine Mystery Box give-away, window- and tree-decorating contests and giant kites over the bay.

Also included are birding seminars, kids' events, arts and crafts sale, pet costume contest, children's ornament workshop, giant kite display and pictures with "Tropical" Santa.

The day will be topped off with an illuminated land parade, and fireworks show.

How to enjoy the festivities and get a little exercise, too

For the first time, this year the newly formed volkswalking group, Rockport City Trailways, joins the fun with their inaugural volksmarching and swimming events.

Get in the swim at the Community Aquatic and Skate Park at 2001 Stadium Drive for the 6-lap, 330-meter swim. It's not a race! Swimmers can begin anytime between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., but must be finished by 5 p.m.

Participants in the 2013 Tropical Christmas Volksmarch should check in at the community pool. The walk begins on the concrete Tule Trail amid picturesque live oak trees and native animals. Pass the new First Baptist Church and historic Rockport School. Sites include the Aransas County Courthouse and the downtown Rockport Historic District with specialty shops, boutiques and art galleries. The walk also skirts Aransas Bay with views of various shore birds.

For additional information on the Volkssport chapter call (361) 727-2158 or email parks3@cityofrockport.com.