A Visit from St. Nicholas

This little girl was completely enthralled.

At the end of the program, the audience was treated to a little fun with Jolly Old St. Nick. He discussed how the traditional bishop’s clothing of St. Nicholas evolved into the current garb of Santa Claus. As he discussed the cloak, hat, beard, and staff; St. Nicholas slowly attired a boy from the audience in Santa’s clothing.

Once Santa was fully-outfitted, he needed some reindeer! More children from the audience were selected to play this important role. The sweet cutie in the red dress just couldn’t get close enough. She walked herself right onto the stage when Santa needed a Rudolph. It was precious.

By now, you’re probably wondering who this wonderful presenter is and where he came from. (I know I was!) This particular St. Nicholas is actually a local Michigander. Based out of Livonia, Michigan; Fr. Joseph Marquis has over 40 years of experience portraying “Father Christmas.” He previously served as the “official Santa” of the J.L. Hundson Thanksgiving Day parade (a Detroit tradition.) Today, Fr. Marquis runs the St. Nicholas Institute where he provides multi-day seminars to train others in the live portrayal of Santa or St. Nicholas. What a unique and special man!

Looking for St. Nicholas resources to use in the classroom? You can download a FREE St. Nicholas Mitre hat craftivity or a special Interactive Sight Word Reader entitled “Here is St. Nicholas.” St. Nicholas Center is another wonderful website that offers an abundance of resources and St. Nick themed activities for children.


I couldn’t resist… I had to have my photo taken with St. Nicholas too!