St. Clair, Michigan
1948 – Current

International Santa Claus Hall of Fame – December 2014

For over 30 years, Sam Militello has been entertaining children’s hearts as Santa Claus. Sam has enjoyed the chance to visit with thousands of children along the way.

A veteran of both print and media appearances, Sam has appeared often in America’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, traveling through the streets of downtown Detroit via sleigh and reindeer.

For over a decade, Sam assisted in launching the Good Fellows annual charity drive, as well as Toys for Tots and other local charities. Through it all, he has brought his own unique character to the red suit.

Sam is also the owner of Santa & Co. LLC, where he has been crafting exceptional Santa attire for the Christmas community for many years. Through his dedication to the craft, Sam has introduced unique design touches that have become part of the Santa suits worn by performers around the world.

Sam also raises and tours as Santa with his own reindeer.