For more than a century, Swarthmore families have cherished a Christmas Eve tradition unlike any other. Each year, Santa and his team of devoted local volunteers bring warmth, joy, and a touch of North Pole magic to homes throughout our community. What began in 1890 as a gesture of generosity from one family has grown into a beloved townwide tradition passed down through generations.
Today, Swarthmore Santa continues to honor that spirit with gentle visits, twinkling bells, and moments that become lifelong memories. Whether your children are dreaming softly in their beds or awake for a quiet hello, Santa arrives with care, a warm smile, and the comfort of a tradition rooted in kindness and connection.
Families may request a visit, prepare a pre-selected gift for Santa to place, or capture a photo or video to share with their children on Christmas morning. The goal is simple: to create a magical, comforting moment that reflects the heart of our town.
Request a Visit
To request a visit for children ten years or younger who will be in Swarthmore on Christmas Eve, please email swarthmoresantaclaus@gmail.com Be sure to include your address and the names and ages of your children. Requests must be received no later than noon on December 23.
Below you will find answers to some commonly asked questions about this beloved tradition
**Frequently Asked Questions**
How do families request a visit?
Families may contact Santa’s workshop directly to request a visit. To reach Santa and his helpers, email swarthmoresantaclaus@gmail.com with your address and the names and ages of your children.
What time will Santa arrive?
Families may share a preferred time. Visits take place between 8 PM at night and 1 AM in the morning. Volunteers work carefully to honor each request as closely as possible. Please don’t worry – we will not surprise you with really late visits!
Do children need to be awake?
Not at all. Some families enjoy waking their children softly for a brief hello, but many prefer to let them keep dreaming. Both choices are perfectly welcome.
Can Santa leave something special if children are sleeping?
Yes. Families often set aside a pre-selected gift for Santa to place under the tree or in a special spot. Santa can also leave a handwritten note, a photograph moment, or a quiet memory for morning discovery.
Can parents take a photo or video of Santa?
Yes, parents are welcome to capture a moment for their children to enjoy on Christmas morning. It keeps the memory alive while letting their little ones rest peacefully.
Does the visit cost anything?
No. This tradition has always been offered freely. While Santa never accepts gifts or money, a simple plate of cookies or a carrot for the reindeer is always appreciated.
How long has this been happening in Swarthmore?
Since 1890. This is one of the longest running traditions of its kind in the country, carried forward by generations of families with care and love.
Who helps Santa with his visits?
Local families volunteer in many roles. Some drive Santa from home to home, some prepare his suit, some assist with planning routes, and others help ensure each child’s name and age is known. Many have been helping for decades.
Are families of all backgrounds welcome?
Yes. Though begun long ago by Presbyterian families, the tradition is now guided by Quaker consensus and embraces every family in Swarthmore, regardless of faith or background.
How do I officially request a visit for my child?
To request a visit for children ten years or younger who will be in Swarthmore on Christmas Eve, parents or grandparents can contact Santa’s workshop by sending an email to swarthmoresantaclaus@gmail.com as soon as possible. Please include your address and the names and ages of your children. Requests must be received no later than noon on December 23.
To learn more about our tradition, which has been alive for over 130 years, read this article published in Main Line Today in 2018: The Magic Behind Swarthmore’s Christmas Eve Santa Tradition