Did you know Pratt has its very own Santa? Also known as Brad Fisher, he recently gave an interview in which he shared his own childhood and adult “Santa sightings.” Those were part of his inspiration to become the kind and jolly man in the red suit himself. He is a native Prattan, owning a red suit and a heart filled with love.

A childhood encounter with Santa began to shape him for his later role as Santa. His family was on summer vacation in Colorado and went to the ‘North Pole’ near Pikes Peak. There was Santa- but young Brad was terrified of the guy in the red suit! However, he recalls Santa was very kind and sat down with him, helping Brad overcome his fear. 

As an adult, when Brad had children, his wife’s stepdad had a Santa suit. This man portrayed Santa for the grandchildren. When he passed away about 7 years ago, Brad’s mother-in-law gave him the suit, asking that he play Santa for the grandkids. 

He did, and then began acting as Santa for various other events. As he said, “One morning I just woke up as Santa Claus!”

Santa shares his persona at various places around Pratt, such as Christmas in the Park, at businesses, and schools. He shared an account of a Santa portrayal in Wichita some years ago. A child about 6 years old, saw him, yelled, Santa! and ran toward him. Brad’s heart “just melted”. The smiles of the children are what make being Santa worthwhile, he says. 

When visiting with children who ask about his reindeer, Santa lets them know he lets them graze in a pasture outside of town. Then he calls for the reindeer, and they arrive and pick him up!