Santa with a reindeer and a snowman

About this drawing

Santa and friends lined up for a picture is a scene many families know well, because a visit to Santa and a holiday photo are a December ritual across the United States.

The custom began in stores. In the late 1800s, some American department stores hired men to dress as Santa Claus to draw families inside during the holiday rush. Children waited in line to sit on his lap and share their wish lists, while parents browsed for gifts.

As cameras became common, the visit turned into a keepsake. Shopping malls in the twentieth century built elaborate Santa sets with thrones, trees, fake snow and sometimes costumed elves or reindeer. Today, many families book a time slot, and some even bring pets for a photo with Santa.

The pictures are not always perfect. Crying toddlers and wide-eyed babies have become a beloved part of the tradition, and many parents save every year's photo to watch their kids grow up. Some towns also offer quieter, sensory-friendly visits, so children who find crowds and noise overwhelming can meet Santa in a calmer setting.

• santa
• reindeer
• snowman
• christmas for kids