Santa Steve Olimer comes from a long line of iconic Santas, steeped in a rich legacy that spans generations. His roots in the Claus family run deep, with his parents, Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, having donned the famous red suit and spread holiday cheer throughout the ’70s up until ’93. His father, in particular, became a household name, gracing television screens and magazine pages in numerous commercials and advertisements for brands like 7UP, Avon, Bell Telephone, and Kellogg’s Corn Flakes, among others. His presence was felt not just in commercials but also in the festive atmosphere of places like the Yorkdale Shopping Centre.
Steve Olimer first stepped into his father’s big boots in 1982, continuing the family tradition of embodying the spirit of Christmas. Even as he pursued a career in teaching, the call of Santa’s sleigh was strong, and upon retirement, he eagerly donned the red suit to spread joy and goodwill as his father had done before him.
The connection between father and son extends beyond familial ties; it’s a shared commitment to bringing magic into the lives of others. Steve’s father, Santa Bert, was a beloved figure at Santa’s Village in Ontario, where he delighted children and adults alike. Steve not only filled in for his father during his tenure but also took on the responsibility of controlling the Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer robot, adding an extra touch of enchantment to the holiday experience.
Their impact reached far beyond their Canadian home, with Steve making annual visits to Michigan, where families proudly displayed photos of his father, Santa Bert, on their mantelpieces—a testament to the enduring memories he created. Santa Bert’s generosity knew no bounds, as evidenced by his involvement with the Last Wish Foundation, fulfilling a young boy’s dream of meeting the real Santa. His appearance on the popular TV show “Katts & Dog” further solidified his status as the genuine article.
Now, Santa Steve Olimer carries forth the torch of tradition with pride and dedication, embodying the essence of the real Santa for countless families across the globe. His commitment to spreading joy and making dreams come true ensures that the spirit of Christmas continues to shine brightly year after year.
