The Georgetown Santas: A Salina Tradition of Spreading Holiday Cheer
Salina, KS — Along the festive streets of Georgetown Road, a uniquely Salina tradition unfolds each year as the Georgetown Santas don their red suits and white beards to spread holiday cheer. Since its humble beginnings in 1999, this heartwarming event has grown into a beloved holiday staple, bringing joy to thousands of visitors and embodying the true spirit of Christmas.
What started with one Santa waving to passing cars has now become a multi-night event featuring 12 Santas, dozens of helpers, and an unmeasurable dose of Christmas spirit. “It all began on a whim,” says Jack Schmiedeler, one of the founding Santas. “I noticed cars driving by to see Christmas lights, so I grabbed a Santa suit and started waving. It’s amazing to see how it’s grown over the years.”
A Community Tradition Born from a Simple Idea
In its earliest days, Schmiedeler’s solo Santa act quickly grew as more neighbors joined in. Within a few years, other Santas, including Paul McDaniel, Pete Martin, Mike Chaput, and Mel Augustine, became part of the team, adding freshly popped popcorn and candy to their offerings. The event became a collaborative effort with family, friends, and neighbors stepping up as elves and organizers.
The tradition now draws thousands of visitors to Georgetown Road each December. Over the course of three evenings, from December 21 to 23, the Santas distribute hundreds of pounds of candy and popcorn in a free, family-friendly event.
“Seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces makes it all worth it,” says Peggy Timmons, a long-time participant. “It’s about creating joy and memories that last a lifetime.”
Spreading Holiday Cheer Across Salina
Each Santa brings their unique personality to the event, from bellowing “Merry Christmas” across the street to sneaking candy canes onto car door handles and windshield wipers. “It’s what makes the group so fun to be around,” says Schmiedeler. “We each have our own style, but we all share the same goal—to make the experience magical for every visitor.”
The Santas also go beyond Georgetown Road, appearing at local events when schedules allow and waving at travelers from the N. Niles Road overpass on Christmas Eve. “It’s a fun way to bring a little holiday cheer to everyone, even those just passing through,” Schmiedeler says.
Memories That Last Generations
The Georgetown Santas have no shortage of memorable moments. One standout story dates back to their fourth or fifth year, when Santa Paul McDaniel distributed small teddy bears to children with a heartfelt message: “Take care of this bear, and someday bring it back so another child can enjoy it.”
Years later, one of those bears returned when a young woman, who had since moved to Nebraska, came back to Salina for the holidays. “It was incredible to see how much it had meant to her,” recalls Schmiedeler. “Moments like that remind us why we do this.”
A Tradition Powered by Community Support
Despite its growth, the Georgetown Santas remain a grassroots operation. Donations from visitors have covered costs for over 20 years, ensuring the event remains free for everyone. “We’ve been incredibly fortunate,” Schmiedeler says. “The support from Salina and beyond has been overwhelming and vital to keeping this tradition alive.”
The Georgetown Santas are more than just an event—they are a reflection of Salina’s community spirit. “We hope that every family leaves with a little more joy in their hearts,” Schmiedeler adds. “This is our way of giving back to a community that has given us so much.”
Plan Your Visit
The Georgetown Santas will be greeting visitors on Georgetown Road from December 21st to 23rd, 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM each evening. The event is free, and all are welcome.