About

For Hugh McDowell, being Santa Claus is more than a seasonal job. It is an essential part of who he is even when you take away the red suit and realize the holiday season is over. At the end of the day, Mr. McDowell is still himself: Santa.

It all started in 2003 when Santa Hugh saw his potential in this interesting occupation. He’s got the Santa look, adores children, enjoys the holiday season and absolutely loves spreading joy and happiness to those around him.

Santa Hugh is not just any regular Santa, and he has the credentials to prove it! He attended the Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School in Michigan, the oldest Santa Claus school in America, in 2003 and again in 2005.

He is also a member of the Palm Tree Santa’s-Florida’s “Sandie” Clauses (www.palmtreesantas.com).

Aside from his education, Santa Hugh is a member of Santa America, which is a non-profit organization that works with Hospice all over the U.S. and helps children suffering from posttraumatic stress syndrome.

However, Santa Hugh can’t do all this on his own! He has a very special helper: his wife, Betty, also known as Mrs. Claus, who is a former teacher and the former owner of the Learning Path Store in Gainesville, Florida. Betty also attended the Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School in Michigan in 2005 with Santa.