Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
1956 – Current

International Santa Claus Hall of Fame – December 2022

Often called the “Patron Santa of Pittsburgh”, John Suhr’s version of Santa Claus has been a staple of the city’s Holiday events for nearly two decades.

After visiting with Santa Claus in a downtown department store as a child, Suhr burst into tears and cried all the way home. Now, years after that fateful encounter, he dons the red suit for most of Pittsburgh’s premiere seasonal traditions.

From working at Macy’s to lighting the city’s official Christmas Tree to greeting thousands during the official Holiday Parade, Suhr creates magical “Edmund Gwen” moments for children of all ages.

Over the years, he has amassed quite a sizable Santa collection. He is also a consultant for Heinz History Center’s “A Very Merry Pittsburgh!”  And has been featured on local TV stations, radio, newspapers, and magazines, along with many national advertisement campaigns.

His image has been on Christmas cards, ornaments, candles, paintings, art prints, and even refrigerator magnets. Santa Claus is more than a job to Suhr; it is truly his vocation.