As the holidays approach, Santa Claus is out and about and a lucky few will be able to surprise him in shopping centers or Christmas markets. But, how much do we gain by putting on the red and white costume?
Does Santa bring in big money? If on December 24, the prankster uncle or cousin volunteers to put on the man in the hood outfit, taking on the role of Santa Claus is not given to everyone!
How do you become Santa Claus? If no diploma is required to don the Santa Claus costume, the casting is established according to several specific criteria. The main thing remains the candidate’s resemblance to the old man. In order to respect the traditional image of Santa Claus, it is necessary to be male, neither too young nor too thin. Another criterion, and not the least, contact with children is essential. A Santa Claus must be gentle, warm and caring, but also very patient. In terms of skills, handing out gifts and posing in photos will be enough to land the role.
If the job of Santa Claus is relatively accessible in France, this is not the case in England, Canada and Brazil. These countries have specific schools for training in the role of the big bearded man. To the Santa School from London, the students are multilingual and must master the tone and rhythm of the famous “Ho ho ho!”. All the trick questions from children such as “Will my daddy be home for Christmas?” are studied so as not to create disappointment. Rigorous work.
Alexandre Azra is the founder of Visio Père Noël, a concept created during confinement, allowing children to contact Santa Claus by video. He has since developed his activity with the site LouerUnPereNoel.com, offering potential candidates the opportunity to become Santa Claus for an evening or a specific event. Concerning the amount paid, the amounts may vary: “Generally speaking, a professional Santa Claus can earn between 40 and 150 euros per hour, depending on his experience, the quality of his costume and the complexity of the event. For corporate events or high-end services , these prices may be higher”, explains Alexandre Azra.
A service also offered to families: “For individuals, the most common request is to have a Santa Claus stop by for 15 to 20 minutes to distribute gifts and take a few photos. The price varies from 50 euros in the provinces to 150 to 200 euros in nice neighborhoods from Paris”. A good plan to make ends meet!