Did You Know Michigan Is Home to the Oldest Santa School in America?

Here’s a fun Michigan fact that surprises people every year: the oldest Santa School in the United States operates right here in Michigan.

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Honestly, it makes sense. If any state feels close to the North Pole in both weather and spirit, it’s us.

Michigan's Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School

The Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School in Midland has been teaching Santas how to refine their craft since 1937. It was originally started by Charles W. Howard, a Michigan farmer who believed that being Santa should be done with intention and care. He wanted Santas to understand the history, the character, and the responsibility that comes with putting on the red suit.

The school eventually moved to Midland, where it is now run by Tom and Holly Valent. Every October, they host a three-day program that draws in new and returning Santas from all over the country.

What You Learn at Michigan's Santa Claus School

Students learn everything from Santa history to costuming, character development, how to talk with children, storytelling, reindeer knowledge, and even how to keep their Santa persona consistent in public. It’s a full immersion into the world of Santa.

How to Sign Up For Michigan's Santa Claus School

If you’re already wondering whether you can sign up for this year, the short answer is that it’s too late. Classes usually fill quickly, and the 2025 session took place earlier this year in October.

One more interesting note: this isn’t just the oldest Santa school in the U.S., it’s recognized by Guinness World Records as the longest-running Santa school anywhere. For a small program that started on a Michigan farm, it has grown into a nationally known piece of holiday history.

So while it may be too late to become Santa for this season, next year is wide open. If Christmas magic is your thing, or if you simply like the idea of joining a tradition that’s nearly a century old, this is something to plan ahead for.