Table of Contents
- Santa returns to Martin Place — the people, the purpose and the stories
- What Santas do — beyond the photo
- Memorable moments and unusual requests
- Practicalities of the role
- Why the tradition endures
- How to prepare for a visit
- Who are the Santas at Martin Place and how did they become Santas?
- Are the Santas "real" and can children touch them?
- Can adults have photos with Santa?
- What do Santas do about unusual requests like animals or unicorns?
- Are Santa beards real?
Santa returns to Martin Place — the people, the purpose and the stories
Meeting Santa is more than a photo op; it’s a performance of joy and a ritual for families visiting Martin Place in Sydney. The Seen to Believe Santa in the City experience has drawn crowds keen to meet the men who slip into the red suit each year. Behind the beard are performers with decades of experience, childhood memories passed down through families and a simple mission: to spark belief and spread cheer.
The city installation brings together Santas who treat the role as both a seasonal job and a calling. Santa Andrew and Santa Michael are two faces of this tradition — each with a different path to the chair but the same dedication to creating magical moments for children and adults alike.
Santa Andrew describes his journey as a family inheritance. He says his mother and grandmother "installed Santa into me" when he was young, and the role naturally evolved as he grew older and bigger. What began as a temporary gig became a long-term commitment the moment he put on the jacket and beard.
Santa Michael, who balances his seasonal role with everyday work such as bus driving or teaching, says the suit transforms the wearer. To him, authenticity comes from the ability to "pull it off" — if you can embody the character, you are real to the child in front of you.
What Santas do — beyond the photo
Visitors often assume the role is simple: sit, smile, pose. In reality, Santas act as storytellers and comforters. They carefully read the room, mirror children’s excitement and soothe nervous toddlers. The aim is emotional connection more than a perfect photograph.
During the pandemic, that connection was tested. Santas adapted with creative distancing — hand-on-stick high-fives and carefully staged interactions — but the return of close cuddles is what many performers say they appreciate most. That physical warmth is a big part of the magic returning to live events.
Memorable moments and unusual requests
Part of the job is dealing with extraordinary requests and treasured family stories. Santas hear it all: from toddlers asking for animals to centenarian visitors taking at-last photos. One Santa recalls a 93-year-old woman who had never posed with Santa because her father forbade it, and how her husband arranged for her to get the photo she missed in youth. That spontaneous moment became a cherished Christmas present.
Requests can veer into the fantastical. Santas report being asked for live unicorns — a reminder that children's imaginations set the brief. Performers and elves politely explain logistics, but they do their best to hold the wonder.
Practicalities of the role
There’s craft behind the costume. Many Santas maintain beards year-round, trimming and grooming to keep the look consistent. Some beards are real and carefully maintained, while others are crafted with wigs and prosthetics — but the goal is the same: authenticity.
Performers also prepare for every age. Santas will meet newborns fresh from hospital and teenagers who feel different emotions about the experience. The unpredictability is part of the appeal — and the challenge.
Why the tradition endures
At its core, the Santa experience is about belief. Whether the man in the suit is a bus driver, teacher or actor, he becomes a vessel for a tradition that comforts, connects and celebrates. For many families, an annual visit is a bridge between generations — a simple ritual that marks the season.
"If the person can pull it off, they've turned the red suit into a good believer," one Santa said, capturing the essence of the role: conviction, warmth and a willingness to play.
How to prepare for a visit
- Book a time slot in advance to avoid long queues at popular city locations.
- Bring a list of simple requests for children to share — clear, short ideas help nervous kids engage.
- Consider mobility and sensory needs: busy settings can overwhelm some visitors, so check quieter sessions if needed.
- Respect the performer: a gentle approach and clear guidance make for better photos and happier children.
Who are the Santas at Martin Place and how did they become Santas?
They are local performers and volunteers who often come from varied day jobs such as driving or teaching. Many say the role runs in the family or felt like a vocation the first time they put on the jacket. They train in character work, crowd handling and child interaction to create consistent experiences.
Are the Santas "real" and can children touch them?
To children, Santas are real when the performer commits to the role. Physical contact policies may vary depending on health and safety guidelines; since COVID, many venues returned to normal cuddling but always check local rules and session types (e.g. contact-free options).
Can adults have photos with Santa?
Yes. Performers welcome adults and often accommodate special requests — from centenarian visitors to entire families. If you have a special story or need, let staff know and they will usually help arrange something meaningful.
What do Santas do about unusual requests like animals or unicorns?
Live animals and mythical creatures are typically not permitted due to safety and logistics. Santas and venue staff will suggest imaginative alternatives — props, storytelling or themed photos — to keep the wonder alive without compromising safety.
Are Santa beards real?
Some performers wear real beards and groom them year-round, while others use high-quality prosthetic beards. Either way, grooming and costume maintenance are part of the role to ensure a convincing and consistent appearance.
The information in this article has been adapted from mainstream news sources and video reports published on official channels. Watch the full video here Meeting Santa: Who is behind the big red suit?| 7NEWS
