Jeff Hollingsworth, known as Shore Drive Santa, has been captivating holiday travelers and local residents across Hampton Roads this festive season. Last week, he brought joy to visitors at Norfolk International Airport with his exuberant greetings, declaring, “Ho, ho, ho, merry Christmas.” This delightful appearance caught the attention of Bailey Landry, a flight attendant from Miami, who exclaimed, “Oh my God — Santa! This is so cool.”
Hollingsworth, a retired real estate manager from Virginia Beach, has embraced his Santa persona for over 15 years, a journey that began with encouragement from friends. His striking resemblance to the traditional figure, complete with a snow-white beard and rosy cheeks, has made him one of the most sought-after Santas in the region.
From Local Open Houses to Community Events
The transformation into Shore Drive Santa started when Hollingsworth and his wife, Cyndy, hosted a Christmas open house in their neighborhood. With nearly 100 guests attending each year, Hollingsworth first donned a Santa-like shirt, leading friends to suggest he take on the role fully. The following year, he purchased a complete Santa suit, marking the beginning of his festive journey.
Hollingsworth’s impact is felt throughout the community. His first visit to a residential care center for children with disabilities left a profound impression on him. “That just kind of broke my heart,” he shared. “But it was good that I was able to spread some joy to them.” Since then, he has participated in various local events, including riding a Zamboni at a Norfolk Admirals hockey game and appearing on a Virginia Pilot Association boat in Lynnhaven Inlet.
Cyndy often joins him as Mrs. Claus, though she insists that he deserves most of the credit for the magic they create. “He’s the one that creates the magic,” she remarked. “He’s good at it.”
Maintaining the Santa Image
This holiday season, Hollingsworth’s calendar is packed with photo opportunities at various local businesses, including a recent visit to all locations of Bay Local Eatery. Frank Tiaba, the general manager, praised him, stating, “He’s probably the best Santa I’ve ever seen.”
Maintaining his Santa look requires commitment. Hollingsworth carefully grooms his beard and avoids foods that could stain it during the festive months. “It’s a constant battle,” he admitted, mentioning that he forgoes his favorite buffalo wings and burgers from November through Christmas. “Even a nice, juicy hamburger with mustard and ketchup — it gets on that white beard.”
While he keeps track of his weight, Hollingsworth embraces his Santa-like physique. “I’d like to be a little thinner, but it works really well for me as Santa Claus,” he explained.
Outside the holiday season, Hollingsworth remains active and engages with the community. He shares posts on social media, showcasing his visits to assisted living facilities during Christmas in July and enjoying time on the beach in a Santa surfing shirt. He even took to a personal watercraft last summer, donning his signature white-trimmed Santa hat.
“I like to see the gleam, the glow, on the faces of the little children,” Hollingsworth expressed, reflecting on his mission to instill belief in the magic of Santa. His dedication to spreading joy not only brightens the holidays but also fosters a sense of community spirit throughout Hampton Roads.
As the festive season continues, Shore Drive Santa remains a beloved figure, embodying the joy and magic of Christmas for many families in the region.
