About Department Store Santas

In 1870, a cultural tradition was born in the world’s biggest department store. In anticipation of the holiday season that year, Macy's in New York’s Herald Square, lured shoppers with illuminated window displays that have become a much-anticipated annual tradition. It was the same year that Macy's hired their first Santa Claus, who listened to children's Christmas wishes (then told their parents where to find the toys in the store).

The most famous Department Store Santa was portrayed in the heartwarming 1947 classic film, Miracle on 34th Street. It features the Oscar-winning performance of Edmund Gwenn as Santa Claus, and a young Natalie Wood as the child who longs to believe in him.

The holiday season is in full swing when a cultured gentleman with twinkling eyes, an ample belly, and a snowy beard is hired as Macy's Department Store Santa. He claims his name is Kris Kringle, and soon fills everyone with Christmas spirit – except for his boss, Doris Walker, who's raising her daughter Susan to not believe in Santa. But when Kris is declared insane and put on trial, everyone's faith is put to the test as old and young alike face the age old question: Do you believe in Santa Claus?

The first Santa Claus Training School opened in Albion, New York, on September 27, 1937, where one could get a B.S.C. (Bachelor of Santa Claus) degree for $75.