Kelowna, British Columbia
1958 – Current

International Santa Claus Hall of Fame – December 2022

Founder of Santas Across the Globe and the Fraternity of International Real Bearded Santas, Tom Kliner has brought many Santas, Mrs. Claus, Elves, and others in the Christmas Industry together as well as helped mentor newcomers.

Over the 20-plus years, Kliner has appeared in a multitude of venues. Originating as a Mall Santa for the first two years, then off on his own, often working with his real Mrs. Claus, he has created opportunities to bring the Christmas Spirit to life in many ways.

Doing city tree-lighting events, corporate parties and events, private homes, schools, pre-schools, and daycares, to name a few, he has also been able to visit hospitals and seniors, support child advocacy, and lend a face to many, many fundraisers and charities.

This Santa has evolved from just personal appearances to a virtual Santa, as well as several movies and television shows. Being Santa has been the most personally outstanding experience ever. Some of the most challenging but also rewarding experiences have been with persons with special needs, and the hardest of all was last Christmas.

The knowledge of knowing you’re helping someone celebrate their last wishes is something you will never forget.