Santa on Demand: Increasing Numbers of Party Planners Are Hiring Christmas’s Main Man to Up the Cheer, Thanks to the Internet

Santa Claus has a lot of appearances to make this time of year. With his numerous commitments, it’s no surprise that his helpers (and stunt doubles) are in high demand as well.

GigSalad has been tracking how the jolly men in red suits have been faring and, like most types of entertainment on the leading entertainment booking platform, requests for Santa services is up. Way up.

“Bookings for Santa have increased more than 70% year to year,” explains Tessie Barnett, GigSalad’s head of marketing. “Our Santa-themed entertainers have been seeing nearly 40% more queries about their services as well. It’s always a busy time for Santas but usually not this busy. It’s unexpected that demand for Santa is growing so significantly.”

The jump in Santa bookings mirrors the overall growth of GigSalad, as more and more party planners turn to the platform to find and engage entertainers, from face painters and bartenders to burlesque dancers and mermaids, to string quartets and jazz trios.  

The most successful Santas have a knack for expanding the usual ho-ho-hoing repertoire. Take Santa RW in New Jersey: He’ll play carols, sing, read stories to young partygoers, and ride in on a boat for a bit of nautical flair. Andrew Santa in New York adds a special Big Apple humor and some nice dance moves to things, while keeping the traditional, demanding Santa style intact.

Party planners in balmier climes seem most keen to bring the Jolly Old Elf to their events. Top Santa markets include San Diego and Austin. “We can’t speak for event planners, but it does seem to be a great way to up the holiday spirit at a party, even if the weather is sunny and warm,” Barnett says.

About GigSalad
GigSalad is an online platform for artists and event service providers to promote their talent, connect with event hosts and planners, and get booked for private and public gigs ranging from weddings and parties to corporate events and festivals. As the largest entertainment booking platform in the U.S. and Canada, GigSalad can help you do what you love. Find out more at www.gigsalad.com