04/26/2026
Today was a great day to be Santa.
Now you might be asking, "Why would a nice, warm day in late April be a great day to be Santa?"
I get it. You see, Mrs. Claus and I often dress in what we call "Santa light" clothing on weekends. We do our weekend chores or step out for a bite to eat dressed as such for several reasons.
Yes, obviously, we continue to build our brand and get the word out about us. If you've seen our vehicle, you know as much -- the magnets, the website URL, and of course the colorful garland strung along the luggage rack all scream Christmas no matter what month is showing on the calendar.
But we mainly do it to bring joy to children and adults alike who cross our paths. Today was a prime example of both as we grabbed lunch at Arni's on Veterans Memorial Parkway early this afternoon.
A young boy sitting nearby could not stop staring, pointing, and shouting that Santa was sitting over there! His sister was enthralled as well. And so, as they prepared to leave, I waived them over. The little boy ran straight at me and threw himself into me with the biggest hug.
That's why I do what I do. It's that simple. The joy I get from making littles happy makes all the time, money and energy we pour into this journey worth it. It's all about the kids. No other reason comes closer than that.
His sister was just as adorable, shy but happy to stop by. And both kids were happy to get their wrist bracelet from Santa that proclaimed they met Santa and were on my Nice List. Mrs. Claus normally would give out some fun stickers, too, but alas, she'd inadvertantly left them home today.
A bit later after the kids and their grownups departed, a woman stopped by our table to tell us how much she enjoyed our visiting with those kids and making them happy. She said seeing that made her day.
We can't tell you how many adults have stopped us to tell us that very same thing after witnessing our interaction with children.
Later, at Sam's Club, a man stopped me and asked if he could get a photo with me. Again, I'm not in full Santa gear, but the baseball cap trimmed in white fur and long red fabric capped in a white pom, the white beard, and the T-shirt that said "Believe" is enough to convey who I am. And adults LOVE it. I can't tell you how many photos I've taken with adults.
So yes, it might be late April, but we bring the Christmas spirit all year round. After all, we don't go into hibernation after Christmas!
Yes, I get my share of adults asking me if I'm a bit early. I love those moments! I might ask them, "Oh, is there a good sale coming up in a bit?" or "I'm not on official Christmas business -- I'm on vacation, and the kitchen is getting a bit bare!" And the adults always respond with good cheer.
My wife and Mrs. Claus, Karyn, and I do this year round because we've seen how much joy it brings to children of ALL ages. We think the world we live in today needs Santa Claus and his better half out and about, spreading the love, joy and happiness of Christmas no matter the month.
So, if you see us in the Greater Lafayette area, by all means, don't be shy to approach us. We're always happy to talk to children and the young at heart, and we're more than happy to take photos with you!
Finally, as summer approaches, remember we're available for bookings. We're ready to bring the spirit of Christmas to your BBQ, picnic, Christmas in July event, or maybe just a birthday party where the special person has a real love of Christmas and Santa! We're always happy to answer any questions, and you can read more about us and start the booking process at www.yourlafayettesanta.com.
Videos coming soon, I promise! Santa's been busy slowly acquiring new equipment and building his extended summer wardrobe. Santa will be available in a choice of summer vacation duds, a nod to our Lafayette Aviators baseball team, or a patriotic ensemble that pays tribute to America, Memorial Day, and Independence Day!
Oh, and remember: Be good for goodness sake!
