What started as a simple neighborhood idea along Georgetown Road has grown into one of Salina’s most charming Christmas traditions, complete with Santa suits, popcorn, candy, and a story that still gets laughed about years later.
Back in their younger and more adventurous days, the group remembers keeping a few beers hidden in a mailbox, sneaking sips between waves of holiday visitors. One evening, when Paul McDaniel couldn’t be there because of work, he quietly sent a police officer to check things out on Georgetown Road.
The officer took his job seriously and decided he would “have to have a look around,” eventually opening the mailbox and discovering the beers inside.
“Oh I’ll have to arrest you,” the officer joked, instructing the Santas to line up with their hands on top of the patrol car.
From across the street, Jack Schmiedler’s teenage son witnessed the scene unfold and rushed to tell his mom, “Oh no! Dad’s getting arrested.”
Each of the original Santas still has a photo of that moment, all of them standing with their hands on the cop car, Santa suits and all. It wasn’t until years later that Paul finally admitted he had been the one who sent the officer over in the first place.
The tradition itself dates back to 1998, when Jack Schmiedler noticed how many cars were slowly passing through the neighborhood at night, full of families out enjoying Christmas lights. Seeing the opportunity to add a little extra cheer, he bought a Santa suit, stepped outside, waved to passing cars, and handed out candy.
Before long, neighbors joined in. Paul McDaniel crossed the street to take part, followed by Pete Martin, Mike Chaput, and Mel Augustine. Others stepped in as Santa’s helpers, including Justin Martin, Virgil Michaelis, and Larry Thompson. What began with candy soon expanded to include freshly popped popcorn, adding to the experience for families passing through.
(Left to Right) Jay Caldwell, Jack Schmiedler, & Paul McDaniel
(Left to Right ) Pete Martin & His son, Justin Martin
(Left to Right) Brian Charles, Mel Augustine, & Nick Brungardt
Klaus Leiblein of Germany Visits Salina to See Son Andy Leiblein, a Georgetown Santa
Today, the Georgetown Santas continue the tradition that has become a seasonal staple for many Salina families.
The Santas will be out for three consecutive nights beginning Sunday, December 21, through Tuesday, December 23, from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. each evening. Candy and freshly popped popcorn will be handed out to passersby.
The event is open to everyone and free to attend. Donations are encouraged to help cover operating expenses.
More than two decades later, Georgetown Road remains a place where Christmas cheer is still shared the old-fashioned way: neighbors showing up, dressing up, and making memories that last far longer than the lights themselves.