In PHOTOS: Whacky, thrill-seeking Santas are here

Remember that stocky guy with a white beard in a red outfit on a reindeer-pulled sleigh? Yes, he is back again. As the spirit of Christmas warms up wintery nights of December, millions await their Christmas gifts from their dear old Santa. Some say he stays at the South Pole, other believe he is from Finland. Whatever the legend may be, he remains one of the most awaited guests at most households around the world.

Alas, there are quite a few modern-day wannabe Santas. Let's take a look at some of them.

A member of the Detroit Pistons 'Flight Crew' dunk team, wearing a Santa suit, flips upside down before dunking a ball during a time-out in the first half of their NBA basketball game against the Toronto Raptors in Auburn Hills, Michigan December 23, 2009.

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A man dressed as Santa Claus waves from a motorcycle during the annual meeting of the "rent-a-Santa Claus" service at Berlin's Universities. Some 300 Santas who take part in the service will visit families, business Christmas parties or other events. They charge 28 euros per visit - or 56 euros if they bring an angel with them.

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