About Us

Since 1960...

Cherry Hill Programs has proudly brought Santa to millions of families through iconic, trusted destinations across North America. From a Santa’s very first stop to the most seasoned professional, Santa Central is here at every stage of the journey; meeting Santas where they are and supporting them as they bring the magic to life and create moments that become cherished family memories.
Santa Central is a year-round home for professional Santas, offering thoughtful placement, meaningful training, and a connected community designed to help Santas grow, thrive, and feel supported both in and out of the season. What sets us apart is our commitment to the Santa experience-not only in the experiences we deliver to families, but in how we care for, develop and champion our Santas. We believe what Santa contributes to our world matters, and we are dedicated to helping bring purpose, pride, and meaning to the role, and doing our part in upholding the integrity of Santa Claus.
At our core, this is about people-the Santas entrusted with preserving tradition, the families who return year after year, and the moments that become lifelong memories. When Santas are supported, valued, and connected, the magic they create is stronger and more enduring. Every Santa's path is unique, but at Cherry Hill Programs, no Santa travels alone.



Photo of a smiling young boy sitting on Santa Claus's lap, who is dressed in a red suit with white fur trim.
White downward pointing arrow on black background.

Stories from

The Chair

Santa Claus sitting on a green couch with two children, a boy closing his eyes and a girl holding a small sign that says 'Nice'.
The Blessing of Being Santa
‍Each year as Santa brings its own set of stories and memorable moments... Having worked at the same location year after year, the babies I once held for their very first Christmas photo now return as pre-teens. I’ve come to think of these families as “my families.” I often find myself serving as a counselor, as children and adults alike, some as old as 96, feel safe sharing their tragedies and triumphs with Santa...As Santa, I may be participating in—or even creating—the most memorable moment someone experiences all year. Having the opportunity to touch so many lives and become part of their Christmas memories is truly a blessing.”
Close-up of Santa Claus wearing glasses and a red hat, smiling with a snowy white beard.
Santa Terry, IL
Santa Claus sitting on a green couch with a smiling little girl holding a 'Nice' sign and a boy making a face with his eyes closed.
During one visit this season, a young couple shared that their Christmas wish was a miracle—they had been trying for some time to have a baby. In that quiet, tender moment, I reminded them that miracles still happen. As we held hands and prayed together, the love and hope in the room were overwhelming. It is truly an honor to be Santa and to share moments like this with families. I can’t wait for next season, when I hope they return to introduce me to their little miracle.
Close-up of Santa Claus wearing a red hat and eyeglasses with a snowy white beard.
Santa Jerry, WA
Santa Claus sitting on a green couch with a smiling girl holding a 'Nice' sign and a boy squinting beside him.
One afternoon, an excited little girl ran up to me and breathlessly announced, “Santa, you lost this and I found it for you!” She then handed me Santa's driver's license with my actual picture on it. The little girl’s parents acquired the license beforehand and arranged for her to “find” it, so she could return it to me. I’d never seen the license before, but I got the drift immediately and went along. Her joyous delight at being able to help Santa made it a precious moment for her parents and for me. I cherish the license and the memory of having received it from her.
Close-up of Santa Claus face with glasses, white beard, and red hat.
Santa Ed, NJ
Santa Claus sitting on a green couch with a smiling girl holding a 'Nice' sign and a boy with eyes closed wearing a red plaid shirt.
One memory always makes me laugh. I'm in the chair at a very large mall in Long Island, New York. I had just finished visiting and taking photos with a 7 year-old little boy. I watch him run over to his mother and shout, "Now that is the REAL Santa! He's not like that skinny Santa we saw at that store we were at the other day."
Close-up of Santa Claus with white beard and red hat smiling.
Santa Rick, GA
Beige decorative snowflakes of various sizes scattered on a transparent background.
Soft glowing circular light gradient with pale yellow center fading to transparent edges.