While Manhattan’s SantaCon exploded with its annual chaotic holiday revelry, a lively, community-focused Santa Crawl debuted in Northport, NY, on Saturday, December 14, 2024. Spearheaded by History Repeatn’, a new pop-up events company which launched earlier this year, the first annual Northport Santa Crawl drew a sold-out crowd, including residents from neighboring towns who came to experience six festive bars and restaurants along Main Street throughout the afternoon.
With Santa Claus leading the way, attendees were transported back in time as Prohibition Historian Carol Taylor shared stories of Christmas during the era, mixed with trivia about the time – did you know that the electric Christmas tree bulb came about during Prohibition? Before that, trees were lit with candles!
The experience began at Sand City Brewery, with its lively atmosphere and holiday music playing over the speakers. Santa and the History Repeatn’ team greeted each attendee, handing out welcome gifts as they enjoyed discounted drinks from the generous brewery.
From there, the group followed Santa just across Main Street to Feed and Grain Restaurant. Underneath the dazzling holiday lights strung across the ceilings of the spacious bar, attendees enjoyed a tasting of Prohibition-themed cocktails and an array of appetizers courtesy of History Repeatn’. Following lunch, a chorus of slightly tipsy voices filled the air as the guests launched into a raucous rendition of Prohibition-era parodies of “Jingle Bells” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Drunkard”. As the time at Feed and Grain wound down, the group gathered on the restaurant’s decorated outdoor patio, where holiday lights and large blow-ups created a magical atmosphere for Instagram-worthy photos.
The crawl continued at The Northport Hotel, where guests enjoyed holiday-themed cocktails at the bar and excitedly posed for photos with Santa in front of the elegantly decorated lobby Christmas tree. Before leaving, the group assembled in the lobby and followed along as Carol Taylor recited ‘Twas The Night Before Prohibition, with help from Santa.
“Our first Santa Crawl was a resounding success which not only brought people together to celebrate the holidays in a fun, new way but also gave business to these great Northport bars and restaurants.”
- John Daniello, co-owner, History Repeatn'
Rockin’ Fish was the bustling final stop on the inaugural Santa Crawl, where the clinking of glasses and merry chatter filled the air as guests enjoyed discounted holiday drinks like The Grinch Shot and the Cranberry Cosmo. Though the main event had ended, the festive spirit continued as guests who adorned Santa Crawl necklaces were welcomed to enjoy discounted cocktails at the after-parties at both The Wine Cellar on Main and The Ritz Cafe.
“Our first Santa Crawl was a resounding success which not only brought people together to celebrate the holidays in a fun, new way but also gave business to these great Northport bars and restaurants.” Said John Daniello, co-owner of History Repeatn’.
A Look Back At History Repeatn' In 2024
For History Repeatn’, the Santa Crawl served as the culminating event of their 2024 schedule. Following the launch of their inaugural event—a Prohibition Sip & Learn Cocktail Party held at The Crossroads Cafe in East Northport, NY—the pop-up event company has enjoyed a busy few months.
“The past four months have certainly been a whirlwind!” shared Carol Taylor, co-owner of History Repeatn’. “In the midst of the exciting, yet chaotic, launch of our brand-new business, we found ourselves fielding numerous inquiries from various businesses interested in holding events at their establishments.”
Colleagues and friends, Carol Taylor, John Daniello, and Pete Gallo, are the creative forces behind the innovative and successful pop-up events company. With a focus on making history fun for all, the three partners spent the month of July creating a business plan that centered on collaborating with local restaurants and bars to provide unique experiences for people to meet and connect.
“The business provides a valuable benefit to bars and restaurants who seek to fill seats during slow times.” Said Pete Gallo, co-owner of History Repeatn’. “The reaction from the community has been astonishing, but the level of support shown by local businesses has been amazing and greatly appreciated.”
The trio, together with assistant Jessica Driscoll, officially launched History Repeatn’ in September at Northport’s Cow Harbor Day celebration. Hundreds of visitors stopped by their tent throughout the day where they were greeted by the team and given the opportunity to learn about upcoming events, spin a prize wheel for souvenirs, and ask questions, making it a memorable debut for the new company.
In November, History Repeatn’ presented the first annual Veteran’s Appreciation Celebration at Trinity Episcopal Church in Northport, NY. More than one hundred people attended the afternoon event, which was organized as a tribute to the service and sacrifice of those who have served or continue to serve in the military.
The event boasted a truly impressive spread of food and drink, a testament to the generous contributions of several sponsors—Coliseum Caterers, Feed and Grain, Intermezzo, Sand City Brewery, and DelVino Vineyards—secured by the tireless efforts of History Repeatn’. In a demonstration of their commitment, Vets Out of the Rough had volunteers who selflessly contributed their time to both setting up for the event and serving the attendees. Canine Companions, an organization dedicated to training service dogs, made a special visit, bringing with them Ravioli, a charming and promising service dog currently in training. History Repeatn’ managed event promotion, entertainment, desserts, and gifts.
The success of the inaugural event filled Fr. Andrew Garnett with such hope that he expressed a desire to make the event an annual affair.
“From the moving patriotic songs to the wonderful food, it was a great afternoon celebrating our veterans and military. This event will hopefully be an annual event, as it proved to be an excellent opportunity to honor those who have sacrificed so much to defend our freedoms.”
- Father Andrew Garnett, Trinity Episcopal Church
In early December, History Repeatn’, commemorated the 91st anniversary of the Repeal of Prohibition by hosting a celebratory party at The Wine Cellar on Main, in Northport, NY. Guests were treated to a fascinating presentation about the origins of drinking and the repeal of the fourteen year ban on alcohol in the United States while sampling Prohibition-style cocktails, and a wide variety of gourmet charcuterie platters.
“I don’t think any of us, in our wildest dreams, ever expected we’d become this busy, this soon after starting.” Said Daniello. “Our event calendar is already filling up for the first quarter of 2025.”
History Repeatn’ has a jam-packed schedule of exciting events planned for the New Year.
Subscribe to become an HR Insider, or follow History Repeatn’ on Instagram and Eventbrite to find out more about their upcoming events.
Join the HR Insider and get exclusive access to upcoming events, giveaways and more!
Happy Holidays From History Repeatn'
We’d like to send our heartfelt thanks to our new friends and followers for your incredible support and enthusiasm.
We wish you a joyous holiday and look forward to seeing you all in the New Year!
History Repeatn’ is an innovative pop-up events company that offers historically themed experiences for audiences of all ages.
Based in Northport, NY, our events encourage people and communities to come together, giving participants the opportunity to socialize, make friends, and learn- just not in a boring way!
Established in 2024 by friends and former colleagues Carol Taylor, John Daniello, and Pete Gallo, History Repeatn’ partners with local venues to provide distinctive and enjoyable experiences throughout Long Island. We have been featured in publications and online, and are members of Northport Chamber of Commerce.
For our latest events, news and more, visit
