As the last ornaments are carefully packed away and the glow of Christmas lights fades from windows, much of the world gently shifts its focus into the New Year. For many, Christmas becomes a fond memory—something to be revisited when winter rolls around again. But for Santa and Mrs. Claus portrayal artists, the end of Christmas Day does not mark an ending at all. Instead, it signals a transition. We move from reflecting on the season that has passed to thoughtfully preparing for the season yet to come.

For me, the New Year has already begun with a full heart and a full calendar. This first week alone has included more than seven hours of meetings spread across three days, with another session on the horizon, as well as an in-person gathering with a local group of Santa and Mrs. Clauses. A significant portion of this time—four hours so far, with another four scheduled next week—has been devoted to our annual “debrief” sessions. These sessions bring together Clauses from across the country and around the world, all with the shared purpose of reflection, growth, and community.

The debrief is one of the most important parts of our year. It is a time to openly share how our seasons went—what brought joy, what presented challenges, and where we can improve. These conversations are honest, thoughtful, and deeply valuable. By listening to one another’s experiences, we glean insights that help us sharpen our skills, refine our approach, and lay a strong foundation for the year ahead. This intentional reflection ensures that we are always learning, always growing, and always striving to serve families better.

Being Santa or Mrs. Claus is far more than putting on a suit or stepping into a character. It is a lifestyle, embraced with purpose and care. It is a year-round commitment to spreading the spirit of Christmas—kindness, generosity, wonder, and hope—and to creating meaningful memories for hundreds of families each year. We see ourselves as ambassadors of goodwill and love, mindful that even the smallest details can leave a lasting impression.

This work becomes part of who we are at our core. It shapes how we see the world and how we show up for our communities. Long after the trees are taken down and the music quiets, the heart of Christmas remains very much alive. For us, the magic doesn’t get stored away—it continues to grow, evolve, and prepare itself for the next season of wonder.

– Father Christmas of the Three Mountains