Wooden bears, birds and mythical creatures came to life in Frederick this weekend at the town’s annual carving competition.

Looking at a fish on the wall can almost make one feel the wet and slippery scales. A 9-inch Santa Claus is correct in every detail, right down to the pack of toys on his back.

When Americans catch a glimpse of Santa Claus — whether in movies or at a shopping mall — he usually looks the same. He's rotund, sporting a long white beard and a fluffy red-and-white hat.