![](https://res.cloudinary.com/icecube/images/w_750,h_500,c_scale/q_auto/v1610643105/202012_gchen_race_around_the_world_full/202012_gchen_race_around_the_world_full.jpg?_i=AA)
There are many well-established traditions at the South Pole, and the “Race Around the World” (above) is one of them—a fun run that covers about a two-mile circumference around the South Pole, crossing through all the world’s time zones. Costumes optional, but part of the fun. Last week at the Pole they celebrated Christmas, with a special meal, gift exchange, carols, and an open mic night. IceCube winterover Josh received a particularly cool gift from his Secret Santa—a metal-crafted and engraved South Pole station ornament.
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/icecube/images/w_750,h_500,c_scale/q_auto/v1610643100/202012_gchen_open_mic/202012_gchen_open_mic.jpg?_i=AA)
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/icecube/images/w_750,h_563,c_scale/q_auto/v1610643110/202012_jveitchmichaelis_christmas_cake_full/202012_jveitchmichaelis_christmas_cake_full.jpg?_i=AA)
![](https://res.cloudinary.com/icecube/images/w_750,h_563,c_scale/q_auto/v1610643115/202012_jveitchmichaelis_secret_santa_full/202012_jveitchmichaelis_secret_santa_full.jpg?_i=AA)