Magical Holiday Moments
Area Experiences Keep the Wonder Alive
It wouldn’t be our Holiday Issue without highlighting holiday magic. This year, we thought back to our childhoods and memories of this wonderful time of year.
Enter: Santa and Mrs. Claus!
The duo has a fond place in our hearts even now, and their stories and reminiscences of past holidays will warm your hearts.
Cozy up with hot cocoa and read on to discover how three area Christmas figures are helping to create enchanting, heartwarming holiday experiences:
A Soulful Holiday Village
When: December 14 from 12-4 p.m.
Where: Fox Cities Exhibition Center, 355 W Lawrence St, Appleton
Cost: Free.
Representation matters. It’s a major theme in Appleton’s African Heritage Inc.’s mission and upcoming holiday event, bringing to the area a Black Santa, Black Mrs. Claus and Black characters and businesses to support.
“We’re a small nonprofit organization that has been in existence since 1998,” Laura Jones, Lead Volunteer, says. “(Our) goal is to focus on the well-being of Blacks and African Americans, and that’s through programming and community support.”
Next up on the docket is A Soulful Holiday Village on December 14.
“The vision for the event is to give toys and bring joy around the holidays, but also the importance of embracing representation and what that means for our community,” Jones explains. “I grew up in Chicago seeing a Black Santa so that wasn’t a new or unique experience for me, but for a lot of children being raised in Northeastern Wisconsin, they don’t see that, and that’s what we wanted to bring to the community… a Black Santa and a Black Mrs. Claus.
“Even in the characters (guests) see, like Black angels. It’s about creating that space of belonging, that sense of pride in everything you do. Even celebrating the holidays. We depict those characters and we have to be intentional about it in Northeastern Wisconsin.”
The event is open and free to all, and will include vendors, soul food, music, kids’ holiday activities and most of all, a charming unknown.
“We do stations at the event… there’s an element of surprise,” Jones says. “You take a train to this magical essence of what a soulful holiday village is like. We have so many community members who participate.
“We’re always looking for volunteers. A lot of the work we do is on our own so we look to the community to participate and enjoy, but also support and volunteer.”
A Soulful Holiday Village’s Santa: Santa Borders
Why did you choose to become Santa? I choose to become Santa Borders from a desire to spread joy and create magical moments for others. Many people feel a deep connection to the traditions of the season and want to embody that spirit of giving and kindness. Being Satna Borders gives me a chance to bring smiles to children’s faces, share in the excitement of the holidays, and foster a sense of community.
How long have you “been” Santa? My youngest daughter was born December 17th twenty four years ago. I started out by being Santa at her yearly birthday parties. Once she was older, I had requests from family, friends, and churches. I professionally became Santa Borders in 2022.
Do you “prepare” in some way to transform into Santa? Preparing to become Santa involves several fun and thoughtful steps!
1. I start growing my beard in July to ensure that it is full and fluffy by the holiday season.
2. I make sure my suits are clean, well-fitted, and ready to go. I have multiple suits for different events.
3. Getting into character is key. I practice my jolly laugh, storytelling, and the ability to engage with children and adults alike.
4. I work out to stay healthy and energized. It helps me to keep up with the excitement and demands of my role.
Anything you think our readers would find particularly surprising about your role as Santa? Absolutely! Here are a few surprising aspects of being Santa Borders that readers might not expect: Many times, I experience deep emotional moments with children and families. Sometimes, kids share their hopes and dreams, or even their fears, making those interactions truly heartfelt. While the holiday season is the busiest time, Santa Borders aka Mr. Borders engages with the community year-round—participating in events, visiting hospitals, or even attending charity functions to spread cheer beyond December. The role of Santa Borders goes beyond entertainment; it often brings communities together, fostering a sense of belonging and unity during the holiday season. Much of the magic comes from teamwork—whether it is with Mrs. Claus, elves, or event organizers. Creating a magical experience is a collaborative effort!
Funniest request: A little boy asked me to kiss his mother and I told him that Mrs. Claus would get mad at me and would not feed me.
Sweetest memory: My first professional studio event. All the children were excited and standing in line with their parents. Three little girls came into the studio with a lot of energy. They were so excited to get their picture with Santa Borders. When they entered the room, they brought so much joy and energy, I forgot that I was nervous and it calmed me down and I have been enjoying being Santa Borders ever since.
How do you sum up the magical experience of being Santa? Being Santa Borders is a magical experience filled with joy, wonder, and connection. It is about embodying the spirit of giving and spreading happiness to children and adults alike. The twinkle in a child’s eye when they see Santa Borders, the laughter shared during holiday traditions, and the warmth of community create a sense of magic that transcends the material. It is a role that brings people together, fostering love and hope during the holiday season. Ultimately, being Santa Borders is about creating cherished memories that last a lifetime.
A Soulful Holiday Village’s Mrs. Claus: Nelsa Webber 
Why did you decide to become Mrs. Nelly Claus? I love theatre and was a performer in high school, college and after that. I even taught theatre in high school for ten years before becoming a principal. I have always loved children and performing, so when Santa Titus asked me to be a part of his team, I jumped at the chance to perform in such a special way.
How long have you “been” Mrs. Claus? This is my second season as Mrs. Nelly Claus.
Do you “prepare” in some way to transform into this role? Oh yes! Costuming, hair and makeup, of course, but also, I think about who Nelly Claus is, where she came from, why she looks different from the traditional versions of Mrs. Claus, and how do I connect the children and families to this special season of Christmas in my own unique way.
Anything you think our readers would find particularly surprising about your role as Mrs. Claus? They may find it surprising that I had never played Mrs. Claus before now. My own daughters are 18 and 23, but I never played this character when they were little, but I always loved staying up late at night looking at our Christmas tree when they were little and off to bed, helping to prepare for Christmas morning, and it doesn’t surprise me to be Santa’s helper now.
Funniest request: I wear a natural Afro as Mrs. Nelly Claus, and often, the children ask if they can touch my hair. It’s not the traditional Mrs. Claus, but it tickles me because their eyes get big when they first see me.
Sweetest memory: A mother came in with her children and her own mother from over an hour away because they wanted Christmas pictures with a Santa and Mrs. Claus who looked like them. The grandmother cried because, all her life, she had never seen a Santa and Mrs. Claus of color when she was growing up. We bring value, joy and cheer to every occasion, but that really touched my heart that we made such a memorable experience for that family.
How do you sum up the magical experience as Mrs. Claus? Sugar and spice, and everything nice. Sweet treats and hugs. Catalyzing smiles. Love. That’s the magic of Mrs. Nelly Claus.
A Very Neenah Christmas
When: December 6 from 6-8 p.m.
Where: Downtown Neenah (100 & 200 blocks of W. Wisconsin Avenue)
Cost: Free.
Every year since 1998, Future Neenah has turned Downtown Neenah into a charming and magical scene usually reserved for sweet films.
“A Very Neenah Christmas feels like Downtown Neenah is transformed into a Hallmark Christmas movie,” Meredith Rathe, Events Coordinator for Future Neenah, says. “It brings out the joy of the holiday season and has a little something for everyone!
“It has grown tremendously over the years. I like to keep adding fun things to keep it fun and fresh.”
Presenting Sponsor Community First Credit Union and generous community supporters help make the magic happen, including live mannequin windows in each business; life-size igloo and snow globes, an outdoor Christmas movie, kid-sized gingerbread houses, marshmallow roasting over a fire, live reindeer, ice skating available for a cost at The Plaza, live music and carolers.
“Santa is in the Associated Bank side room with Mrs. Claus during our event. Kids line up outside the building and can see him through the windows while they wait,” Rathe says. “Santa is Christmas, especially in the eyes of a child. He is the Christmas magic and without him it wouldn’t feel complete.”
A Very Neenah Christmas’ Santa: Richard Rose
Why did you decide to become Santa? I’m a second-generation Santa. My grandfather did it for me and my family when I was young. I have always believed in the magic of Christmas and I saw the joy and happiness that my grandpa would bring, not only to me but to the other kids around me. I was intrigued by that and when the opportunity presented itself, I didn’t hesitate to take up the suit.
How long have you “been” Santa? The first time I put on the suit was in 1974. I was a sophomore in high school and my parents had moved from Milwaukee to Green Bay. The pre-school my youngest sister attended needed a Santa and my grandfather was too far away to do it so I stepped in. My youngest sister is 12 years younger than me and I saw it as an opportunity to do for her what grandpa did for me. So I purchased a suit and donned a fake beard and started what would be a long history of sharing the wonder of Christmas.
Do you “prepare” in some way to transform into Santa? I start a week or better before my first visit making sure that I have every part of the suit I need. When the day comes, I carefully put on each piece. My wife once told me, years ago, that she watched me disappear and I become Santa with each piece I add. I take the suit very seriously and have worked over the years to make it as authentic as I possibly can. It’s an honor to wear these clothes and that’s not something I take lightly.
Anything you think our readers would find particularly surprising about your role as Santa? I don’t think there’s much beyond the fact that I have been doing this for 50 years this year. I started with a fake, designer, beard then graduated to the use of my own whiskers (with the help of some whitener) to now being able to use my natural beard. That in itself has its own challenges as I am now recognized as Santa even when not dressed in my suit. I have gone from being Santa during the Christmas season to now being him almost year-round. I now have a summer Santa suit for those Christmas in July events and have had to answer to the kids pretty much anywhere I go.
Funniest request: Kids will ask for anything their little heart’s desire. They think well beyond just toys. They think Santa can heal the sick, bring parents back from deployment or bring them a new brother or sister. I try and take each request very seriously because those kids are asking from the heart. What amazes me most is how many of the children I see ask for the simplest of things and many more will also ask for something for someone else. As amazed as those kids are by seeing Santa, I am equally amazed by them. I enjoy spending a bit of time with them and have never been a fan of rushing them off.
Sweetest memory: There are so many. One of my favorites was my 2-year-old daughter recognizing me as Santa and her daddy all at the same time. She walked around calling me Santa Daddy during a breakfast with Santa back in 1987. But the best has to be my wife and kids joining me as members of the Santa family. My kids became elves in their younger years and my wife has been my Mrs. Claus for the past 28 years. It’s something I not only enjoy but also use as an advantage. Oftentimes when a child is too scared or nervous to come to me, they will go to her. I very much enjoy doing this with her and miss her on the rare occasions that she is not with me.
How do you sum up the magical experience of being Santa? It’s hard to put in words how it feels to be Santa. It is magical to see the wonder in the eyes of the kids that truly believe, but it’s even more so when a child is on the verge and you show them in your words and actions that you are Santa. I think we all need something to believe in and a little magic in our lives. I told my kids when they went from believers to knowing about the real Santa that now that you know you become a part of him and it’s up to you to keep the magic of Christmas going for all those around you.
Visit Santa Fox Cities 
When: Through Appointment (Book early!), November 8 through December 24
Where: The Cottage, W3173 Springfield Drive, Appleton
Recently inducted into the International Santa Claus Hall of Fame, Jeff “Santa Mac” McMullen, takes Christmas and his role seriously. So much so that he has created a special space for families to create memories, snap photos and experience the wonder of the season close to home.
“Visit Santa Fox Cities is a unique memory generating experience for the whole family. Families can book private 15, 30 or 45-minute visits with Santa…no long lines at the mall for a 20 second visit. Parents use their own cameras and take as many photos and videos as they like,” McMullen says.
“Boys and Girls can try on Santa’s boots and jacket, listen to Santa share stories about the elves and the North Pole…and of course, find out if they are on the naughty or Nice list. This is not a typical “lets see Santa” visit but rather an immersive experience. Another unique factor of visiting Santa’s Cottage is that we control the entire experience.
“If there is a special needs family member, we go to all extremes to control flashing lights, music, energy levels and even scents (many people are allergic to certain scents)… we have you covered.
“Speaking of allergies, its almost impossible to give out a treat that everyone likes. Santa Mac has partnered with the special elves at Manderfield’s bakery, so when your visit with Santa is over you can go across the street and pick out your favorite cookie or donut! From being greeted by Santa’s ringing bells and jolly Ho-Ho-Ho’s, to leaving with Santa waving goodbye as you drive away…a visit with Santa Mac is truly a lifelong “wonder-filled” experience for all who believe. Families can book their reservations now by going to www.VisitSantaFoxCities.com with visits.”
Visit Santa Fox Cities Santa: Jeff “Santa Mac” McMullen
Why did you decide to become Santa? I have been a family entertainer for close to 50 years. I am a former Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus clown, toured the world with my own comedy magic show and have a Master’s Degree in Speech/Theater…I share this because all of these venues and experiences have prepared me for this role of Santa. I did not choose to become Santa, I truly believe I have been training for this role my entire life…and when the timing was right, the right people stepped into my career and leveraged me into the role which has been a true blessing to my life. I am simply the “face” of a truly remarkable creative team.
Do you prepare in some way to transform into Santa? Yes, I do a lot of character development techniques which I practice 365 days a year. Many of these techniques I developed as the character development instructor when I went to Tokyo, Japan, to set up a performing arts schools for Ringling Brothers. They consist of a variety of visualization exercises, voice training, character movement, wardrobe development, magic and props development, and many more. All of these characteristics MUST blend together to send one clear consistent message from the character to the audience, or you fall short of reaching the potential each encounter offers.
Anything you think our readers would find particularly surprising about your role as Santa? I think many folks would be surprised by the fact that I have written a book about my Santa experiences titled “Tender Moments from the Big Chair.” It’s a collection of heart-warming experiences children and adults have shared with me. The trust people have in the character of Santa is incredible. I often truly feel more like missionary in a red suit than a fictional character. One other surprising thing is that last year (2023) I was inducted into The International Santa Claus Hall of Fame. The first and only ever from Wisconsin, which is incredible since we have such a rich history here in Wisconsin of dedicated Santas and Mrs. C’s. Currently there are only 106 such Santas worldwide. This honor is personally very important to me as it validates my life work of trying to make a positive difference in young people’s lives. It’s a thumbs up sign of approval that I am doing the right thing at the right time with the right people for the right purpose.
Funniest request: Oh, there are many fun requests. One was from a 4 year old little boy who said, “Santa can you please bring me a nose plug because I share my bedroom with my brother and he has bad gas every night.” Another was from a little girl about 7 years old who asked for a ham and cheese sandwich. I asked really…and she replied “Yes, I really don’t like to play with toys, but I LOVE ham and cheese sandwiches.” You just never know what they are going to ask for…which keeps me on my toes!
Sweetest memory: Again, there are so many sweet memories and experiences. One that stands out however is when I was the “Big Chair” in a mall in Las Vegas, when we did a Zoom call with a dad that was serving in Iraq. Mom held the phone so dad could see, while I had the honor of holding his children in my lap while he served our country. Toward the end of the visit, dad started to cry and said “Sir, I don’t know who you are but thank you for being there for my family since I can’t be there personally.” With that, the littlest girl laughed and said ‘Daddy, of course you know who he is…he’s Santa!’ I will never forget that moment.”
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