It's been a busy season for Kewanna resident Scott Kreh, known locally as Santa Scott. Starting in the Santa business a few years ago, Kreh says 2025 has been the biggest year yet for business, ending the year with a schedule that's been booked solid.
Kreh was originally inspired by family and friends to try out the Santa gig two years ago after he began growing out his beard. Professional Santas often require authentic looks (often real beards) and jolly personality to meet up to par with the "legend" Santa operates on making children's dreams come true through a vast global network.
”Just to see the smiles, hugs and excitement from the kids has made it worth it,” Kreh said. ”It's not only the kids who get excited to see me either. Countless adults and teens also light up at events I'm at, which is nice to see. I think seeing Santa brings back a lot of Christmas memories most of us all had as a kid.”
Thanks to help from his daughter Kelli Novak, this year Kreh was able to create a website to help manage bookings for the seasonal industry, which has brought him to many parties, local events and even a wedding this year. His Santa Claus for hire gig includes a wide range of services including both virtual and in-person visits from the jolly man himself.
Most of Kreh's bookings have been around Fulton and Pulaski Counties, but he's even travelled as far as Illinois this year for an event. Although the 2025 Christmas season is coming to an end, Kreh's business is already doing bookings for 2026. Those interested in more information about bookings and prices can visit Kreh's website at santaclaus-scott.com.
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