Local Santas Spread Holiday Cheer Across North Mississippi

News Summary

In Oxford, two local Santas, Clay Seale and Gary Cromwell, bring joy to the community each December. With a love for festive cheer, they visit towns across North Mississippi, participating in numerous events and touching lives with their warmth. The holiday spirit thrives as the community gathers for celebrations, including a beloved Christmas Parade. Seale and Cromwell create memorable experiences for children and families, ensuring that the magic of Christmas continues to shine brightly in the hearts of many.

Local Santas Spread Holiday Cheer Across North Mississippi

Every December, the charming city of Oxford transforms into a festive hub overflowing with holiday spirit, thanks in large part to two wonderful local Santas, Clay Seale and Gary Cromwell. These jolly gentlemen don their suits and spread joy throughout the community, delighting both children and adults alike.

Clay Seale: The Fun Santa

Clay Seale kicked off his Santa journey back in 2017, making an unexpected debut at a school holiday bazaar in Independence. As the only male teacher sporting a beard, he decided to take on the role of Santa. Although he originally wore an ill-fitting suit, his love for spreading holiday cheer prompted him to invest in a new, well-fitted Santa suit for future appearances.

To prepare for the busy Christmas season, Seale starts growing his beard each July, eagerly awaiting the excitement of the holidays. This year, he’s scheduled for a remarkable 52 appearances across North Mississippi, visiting towns like Batesville, Tupelo, and even Memphis. Seale prides himself on being “the fun Santa,” aiming to deliver laughter through his well-timed corny jokes and by carefully listening to the children he meets during his visits.

For Seale, one of the most memorable moments was receiving heartfelt gratitude from a foster parent whose child he had entertained. He holds a special place in his heart for the community, dedicating about 20% of his appearances to nonprofit events that truly make a difference in people’s lives.

The Cromwell Duo: A Magical Calling

Meanwhile, Gary Cromwell and his wife, Janet, embarked on their own Santa and Mrs. Claus journey after attending a Santa convention in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, two decades ago. Cromwell strives to create a warm and inviting atmosphere during his visits, especially for shy children who may be hesitant to share their holiday wishes.

Janet plays a crucial role in supporting her husband’s Santa persona. She manages their busy schedule and works diligently to comfort nervous little ones during their visits. The Cromwells participate in numerous events, including community festivities, home visits, the Oxford Holly Jolly Holiday celebration, and even Ole Miss athletic banquets. They aim to sprinkle magic wherever they go.

To keep the holiday spirit alive year-round, the couple runs a business called Santa’s Candy and Critters in Batesville. Here, they offer freeze-dried candies and a unique mobile toy machine that allows children to stuff their very own plush animals, creating joyous memories that last long after the holidays.

Cromwell views his role as Santa as a calling—a purpose to spread joy and remind children about the enchanting magic that comes with Christmas.

Community Celebrations: The Heart of the Holidays

In addition to their fantastic work, both Santa Clay Seale and the Cromwells maintain active Facebook pages, providing a convenient way for families to inquire about appearance requests. The Oxford Chamber of Commerce also hosts an annual Christmas Parade, which has become a beloved community tradition. This event attracts thousands of spectators each year, creating a captivating atmosphere filled with holiday cheer.

This year’s parade featured over 45 entries, showcasing local scouts, community groups, and culminating in the much-anticipated arrival of Santa and Mrs. Claus. The Best Float award went to Orion Oxford Dance Arts, who dazzled the audience with their captivating ballerina float. Other awards recognizing community spirit and festive themes also highlighted the strong sense of togetherness that permeates the holiday season in Oxford.

Wrapping Up the Holiday Spirit

The festive decorations, joyful laughter, and sense of community found in Oxford this December perfectly reflect what the holiday season is all about. Thanks to the spirited efforts of Clay Seale, Gary Cromwell, and the wonderful folks of North Mississippi, the magic of Christmas truly lives on!