About Us

The tradition of the Georgetown Santas began in 1999. Santa Jack Schmiedeler would stand out at the end of his driveway and wave at the passersby. He then started handing out candy as cars stopped to see Santa. The following year, Santa Paul McDaniel joined up with Santa Jack to spread the Christmas cheer. Within the next three years, Santas Pete Martin, Mike Chaput, and Mel Augustine joined in to support the cause. It was about that time that the Santas and their helpers; Justin Martin, Virgil Michaelis, and Larry Thompson; began handing out freshly-popped popcorn in addition to the candy. From these humble beginnings has grown a true Christmas tradition on Georgetown Road in Salina, KS.

The Georgetown Santas now greet thousands of visitors in the days leading up to Christmas, from neighbors that approach on foot, to travelers coming in from out of state. The Santas distribute hundreds of pounds of candy, several thousand candy canes, and the Elves pop over 350 lbs. of popcorn in their 3 days of operation, annually.

Why do this? Simply because it gives them great joy to spread a little happiness and cheer with others around Christmas time.