The Stockyards City Cowboy Christmas Parade brought a special guest to Oklahoma City this year. Amid the festive atmosphere, the Oklahoma Farm Reports’ own Maci Carter had the unique privilege of visiting with the man in red himself: Santa Claus.
Despite centuries of delivering gifts, Santa shared that the magic of the job hasn’t faded. When asked what keeps the night special after all this time, his answer was simple.
“The smiles on the children,” Santa said. “Nothing compares with the smiles on the children on Christmas morning when they open that special present”.
The “At Least I Tried” List
As the big night approaches, children across Oklahoma are undoubtedly wondering where they stand on Santa’s list. Santa revealed that behavior seems to be improving, noting that the “naughty list is down a little bit this year”.
He also shared a recent administrative change at the North Pole designed to help out younger siblings who might struggle to keep up with the rules.
“We also started a new list a couple of years ago, especially for little brothers, called the ‘At Least I Tried’ list,” Santa explained. “A lot of people made it, so they’re not on the naughty list this year”.
Reindeer Logistics and Bell Peppers?
With potential fog in the forecast for Christmas Eve, Santa confirmed he will be adjusting his team lineup. “I’m going to use nine this year instead of just eight,” he said, confirming that Rudolph will be leading the way.
While Oklahomans traditionally leave out carrots or “reindeer mix,” Santa offered a surprising insider tip for those wanting to treat his team, specifically Dunder and Blitzen.
“My very first two reindeer… they like bell peppers,” Santa revealed.
As for Santa’s own snacks, while he enjoys the classic milk-and-cookies common in Oklahoma, he admitted his international stops offer a different menu. In Italy, he is often greeted with wine and fresh bread, while the Scots offer a heartier fare.
“In Scotland, it’s not uncommon for them to leave me a small meat pie and a dram,” he laughed. “It’s hard to get out of Scotland sometimes”.
The True Meaning of the Season
Behind the operation, Santa credited Mrs. Claus as the true organizer of the North Pole, noting that she handles everything from the Christmas feast to keeping the elves in line.
“When you think about it, it’s like having a whole workshop full of little children. Mom does a better job,” he joked.
However, before returning to his sleigh, Santa took a moment to reflect on the deeper meaning of the holiday. For him, the season is defined by the themes of Advent—Hope, Joy, Love, and Peace—and by the holiday’s origin.
“Christmas… what it’s all leading up to… is about a present,” Santa said. “Not lots of presents, but that very first Christmas present that was left in a manger for all of us. That’s what we’re celebrating”.
Everyone have a Merry Christmas from all of us At Oklahoma Farm Report.
