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Santa and You

About Santa Ben: A Legacy of Christmas Magic

The Journey Begins

Benton A. Belhorn, known throughout Central Ohio as Santa Ben, began his transformative journey into the world of Christmas magic in 2020. What started as a heartfelt desire to create authentic holiday experiences for his son has evolved into a remarkable career dedicated to preserving and elevating the Santa Claus tradition. After extensive training and preparation, Santa Ben made his debut performance in 2021, and since then has touched the lives of thousands through over 285 magical encounters across Ohio and beyond.

A Foundation Built on Excellence

Santa Ben's commitment to professional excellence is evident in his extensive educational background. He is a proud graduate of the prestigious Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School (2022), often called the "Harvard of Santa Schools," and holds both Bachelor and Master of Santa Claus degrees from the International University of Santa Claus (2023, 2024). His educational journey includes specialized training from Christmas Performer Workshops, the Santaology Series, Michigan Association of Professional Santas Red Suit Conclave, and numerous other professional development programs, representing over 200 hours of formal Santa education.

Serving the Community with Heart

At the core of Santa Ben's mission lies an unwavering commitment to charitable service. Each year, he partners with the Whitehall Police Department for their "Shop with a Cop" program, helping build positive relationships between law enforcement and underprivileged children. His most profound work comes through AngelWorks, where he has completed over a dozen "Make a Wish" type visits with pediatric cancer patients and their families. These deeply moving encounters, which he describes as simultaneously the most difficult and most rewarding aspects of his work, demonstrate his extraordinary compassion and dedication to bringing joy to those facing life's greatest challenges.

Santa Ben's charitable heart extends to adult cancer patients at The Ohio State University James Cancer Hospital, multiple community events with the Columbus Fire Department honoring first responder families, free school visits ensuring every child can experience Christmas magic regardless of financial circumstances, and regular appearances at local churches serving their communities. His philosophy is simple yet profound: the paid events enable him to provide exceptional charitable experiences by funding his training, professional wardrobe, and travel.

Professional Excellence and Innovation

Since 2021, Santa Ben has maintained an impressive performance schedule, completing 40 events in his debut year and growing to 73 annual visits by 2023-2024, with 47 already scheduled for 2025. His appearances span the full spectrum of Christmas entertainment: corporate events, professional photography sessions, home visits, community celebrations, tree lightings, school programs, nursing home visits, and media appearances including his annual feature on Mayor Joe's 12 O'Clock Show for the City of Reynoldsburg.

What sets Santa Ben apart is his innovative approach to the craft. He has developed sophisticated storytelling methodologies, implemented a consultation-based approach with clients, and pioneered premium photography session techniques that elevate the traditional Santa experience. His introduction of photo booth services and collaboration with elite photographers has expanded the possibilities for creating heirloom-quality Christmas memories.

Educational Leadership and Mentorship

Perhaps Santa Ben's most significant contribution to the Christmas performance community is his founding of Master Claus Academy in 2024. This premier educational institution has served over 100 Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and Elves from across the United States, with graduates representing 19+ states from California to New York. The Academy's innovative "Path to Santa Mastery" badge system and comprehensive curriculum have set new standards for professional Christmas performer education.

Under Santa Ben's leadership, MCA has attracted renowned instructors including Lee Andrews and Steve Gillham, creating a learning environment that emphasizes storytelling as the core of Christmas magic. The Academy's annual three-day intensive workshops in Reynoldsburg, Ohio, have become a cornerstone of professional development in the Santa community.

Community Leadership and Professional Recognition

Santa Ben's leadership extends throughout the professional Christmas performance community. As founder and president of Ohio Santas (established 2021), he leads an official IBRBS chapter serving 145+ members across the state. He also serves as an IBRBS Chapter President and Administrator of the Santas Magical Fellowship Group, while maintaining active membership in the Michigan Association of Professional Santas (MAPS), Buckeye Santas, Bluegrass Christmas Performers, FORBS, and ClausNet.

His expertise is regularly sought after through podcast appearances on Tuesday Night Live, Santas Magical Fellowship Group, Bob, Randyl and Company Show, and the Kringle Brothers Podcast. Through the Ohio Santas "Monthly Magic" newsletter and frequent community meetings, he shares knowledge and advances professional standards throughout the industry.

Geographic Reach and Media Presence

Operating throughout Central Ohio and within a 90-minute radius of Columbus, Santa Ben has built a reputation for excellence that extends far beyond his immediate service area. His influence through Master Claus Academy and Ohio Santas reaches performers nationwide, while his local impact includes partnerships with prestigious venues like Bath & Body Works corporate headquarters, Hotel LeVeque, Columbia Gas, and collaborations with award-winning photographers.

A Philosophy of Authentic Magic

Santa Ben's approach to Christmas performance is rooted in authenticity, storytelling mastery, and genuine care for every individual he encounters. His extensive professional wardrobe, continuous education, and innovative techniques serve a single purpose: creating transformative experiences that restore faith in Christmas magic for children and adults alike.

Whether comforting a terminally ill child, bringing joy to a corporate celebration, or training the next generation of Christmas performers, Santa Ben approaches each opportunity with the same dedication to excellence and authentic connection that has defined his remarkable journey from 2020 to today.

Through his performances, educational leadership, charitable service, and community building, Santa Ben continues to elevate the art and impact of Christmas performance, ensuring that the magic of Santa Claus will inspire and delight future generations throughout Ohio and beyond.

Step into a world of enchantment and experience the true magic of Christmas with Santa Ben! From the shimmer of his gold buttons to the twinkle in his eye, Santa Ben embodies the holiday spirit like no other. With just a simple call or email, you can invite the joy of Santa into your home, office, or event, bringing delight to children, co-workers, and customers alike.

Being an exceptional Santa is about more than donning a red suit; it's a commitment to authenticity and excellence. Santa Ben places a strong emphasis on education and mentorship, backed by rigorous training and membership in prestigious Santa organizations. His dedication ensures that every visit delivers the highest quality Santa experience.

Whether you're planning an intimate in-home visit, a corporate appearance, or a festive holiday party, Santa Ben is your perfect choice to make this holiday season truly unforgettable. Embrace the magic and let Santa Ben create cherished memories that will last a lifetime.

Elevating Expertise Through Ongoing Learning

The Master Claus Academy

As the founder of Master Claus Academy and a passionate advocate for Santa education, Santa Ben continues to lead by example in the pursuit of Christmas excellence. After launching MCA's inaugural session in 2024, Santa Ben has transformed this vision into Central Ohio's premier Santa training workshop. The 2025 Academy session, themed 'Creating an Exceptional Christmas Experience,' combines expert-led training with hands-on experience and community building.

Through the Academy's comprehensive curriculum and his dual role as founder and continuing student, Santa Ben demonstrates his unwavering commitment to delivering magical and unforgettable experiences to families and communities. This dedication to ongoing education and professional development ensures that every interaction with Santa Ben is filled with authentic Christmas magic.

International University of Santa Claus

Santa Ben proudly holds multiple certifications from the esteemed International University of Santa Claus, having graduated in both 2023 and 2024! As the world's largest Santa school, this renowned institution has celebrated over 5,000 graduates and boasts more than 20 years of dedicated training and support for Santas and Mrs. Clauses alike. Their comprehensive curriculum in performance excellence and business development has helped Santa Ben continuously enhance his ability to create magical holiday experiences. This ongoing commitment to education through IUSC demonstrates Santa Ben's dedication to delivering the highest quality Santa experience for families and communities.

Santaology

The Art of Becoming a Great Santa Claus!

Santa Ben's journey with Santaology represents a cherished mentorship under internationally renowned Hall of Fame Santa, Stephen Gillham. Following his completion of the comprehensive 36-hour Santaology workshop in 2023, Santa Ben furthered his education at the Circus Magic Arts and Ministry Convention's Super Santa Sunday Workshop in Virginia Beach in March 2024. This intensive 8-hour in-person training with Steve and Deb Gillham enhanced his mastery of storytelling and magical props. This prestigious program, known for its exceptional focus on performance artistry, reflects Santa Ben's dedication to creating authentic and enchanting holiday experiences through the time-honored traditions of Santaology.

Christmas Performer Workshops

Performing Fundamentals

In 2023, Santa Ben embarked on a magical journey with the Christmas Performer Workshops, completing the esteemed CPW Performing Fundamentals course. This transformative experience laid a solid foundation, enhancing his skills in performance, storytelling, and character work. Santa Ben mastered the art of expressiveness and learned to captivate audiences with subtle gestures and Santa Jedi Techniques. The course also illuminated the importance of roles like Mrs. Claus and Elves, enriching his ability to create seamless holiday experiences. With a deeper understanding of the history of Christmas, Santa Ben emerged equipped to deliver unforgettable holiday magic.

Charles W. Howard Santa School

Bring the enchantment of Santa Claus to life with Santa Ben, a proud graduate of the esteemed Charles W. Howard Santa School. Established in 1937, this legendary institution is the longest-running Santa Claus school in the world, and Santa Ben is honored to be part of its rich 85-year history. With rigorous training and an unwavering commitment to delivering an authentic Santa experience, Santa Ben is your perfect choice for making the holiday season truly magical.

Santa and the business of being Santa

Santa Ben is a proud 2022 graduate of Santa Gordon's SATBOBS Santa School. Under the expert guidance of international hall of fame Santa Gordon Bailey, Santa Ben received comprehensive training in every aspect of being a professional Santa Claus. Now fully equipped, he brings the magic of the holiday season to life for both children and adults, creating enchanting experiences for all.

Worldwide Santa Claus Newtwork

As a dedicated member since 2020, Santa Ben actively participates in the Worldwide Santa Claus Network (WSCN), the world's largest online community for Santa performers with over 7,700 members. Often referred to as 'The Stanford of Santa Schools,' WSCN's comprehensive 'Santa Claus Portrayal & Business Mastery' program provides year-round professional development through weekly Zoom meetings and over 200 hours of on-demand educational content.

Following his completion of the Core Course Program in 2021, Santa Ben continues to engage in multiple workshops each year, constantly enhancing his performance skills, business practices, and Santa portrayal artistry. This ongoing involvement with WSCN's extensive training resources demonstrates Santa Ben's commitment to delivering exceptional holiday experiences while staying current with the latest developments in professional Santa services.

The Santa Claus Workshop

Santa Ben is thrilled to announce his successful completion of the Santa Claus Workshop by Stuart Deacon Jr. in 2021. This specialized training program offered Santa Ben advanced performance techniques, storytelling skills, character development, wardrobe and appearance guidance, and effective interaction strategies. Under the expert guidance of Stuart Deacon Jr., Santa Ben has refined his abilities to deliver magical and unforgettable holiday experiences.

The Santa Claus Conservatory

Santa Ben proudly joined as a member of The Santa Claus Conservatory in 2020, The Conservatory has since merged with the Worldwide Santa Claus Network. Under the expert leadership of Santa Ed Taylor, this esteemed institution provided comprehensive training through an extensive array of workshops and seminars. From advanced beard care techniques to business development strategies, the Conservatory's thorough curriculum played a significant role in Santa Ben's professional development. The merger of these two prestigious organizations continues to strengthen the Santa community's educational resources, reflecting the evolving nature of professional Santa training.

Santa Ben is a member of these State Santa Groups

Ohio Santas

Santa Ben is the visionary founder of Ohio Santas, a vibrant social group dedicated to promoting excellence within the community. Through education, mentoring, and shared experiences, the group encourages its members to deliver extraordinary experiences at every event. Their mission is to spread joy and happiness to children and all those they encounter, embodying the true spirit of the season.

MAPS

The Michigan Association of Professional Santas (MAPS) is devoted to creating a vibrant forum for Santas, Mrs. Clauses, elves, helpers, and support staff across Michigan. Our mission is to foster networking and discussions on all aspects of portraying Santa Claus, empowering our members to become the best Santas and holiday helpers they can be.

Buckeye Santas

Since 2007, Buckeye Santas has been a joyful community dedicated to spreading Christmas magic through fellowship and growth. We mentor and elevate Santas and Christmas Performers, ensuring they embody the true Spirit of Christmas.

Bluegrass Christmas Performers

Bluegrass Santas & Friends is a welcoming community where Santas, Mrs. Clauses, and their helpers unite to share insights and support one another in perfecting their craft. This group is a valuable resource for exchanging knowledge, enhancing skills, and discovering employment opportunities. Whether you're seeking a performance gig or need coverage for an event, Bluegrass Santas & Friends is your go-to hub for all things Christmas performance.

Santa Ben is a member of these National or International Santa Groups

IBRBS

The International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas (IBRBS) stands as the world's largest organization of professional Santas and Mrs. Clauses. This vibrant, member-driven social group offers access to a wide range of professional services, including Christmas performer liability insurance, comprehensive background checks, unique service and recognition programs, scholarships, and educational opportunities. With robust local chapter support and more, IBRBS is dedicated to enhancing the skills and experiences of its members. Proud member since 2021.

FORBS

"I was a member of The Fraternal Order of Real Bearded Santas (FORBS), an American organization dedicated to men who naturally resemble Santa Claus and are committed to promoting a positive image of Santa. As the name suggests, all members proudly sport real beards. The organization holds monthly meetings and offers seminars and classes to support its mission."

Santa's Magical Facebook Group

Santa Ben is a proud member and Admin of Santa's Magical Fellowship, a lively community dedicated to exchanging ideas and talents related to all things Christmas. This group offers a platform for sharing festive insights through engaging Zoom meetings and encourages members to showcase their recent projects through live sessions or video submissions. As an Admin, Santa Ben helps facilitate the sharing of effective tricks, clever hacks, and time-saving tips to enhance the holiday experience for all.

ClausNet

Santa Ben is a proud member of The ClausNet Santa Claus Network, the premier online community for actors dedicated to the traditions and faithful portrayal of Santa Claus, Mrs. Claus, and Elves. This vibrant network also welcomes reindeer handlers and breeders. ClausNet.com stands as the Internet's largest resource for the Santa Claus community, offering a platform for sharing stories, advice, news, and information. Most importantly, ClausNet fosters friendships that help spread happiness to true believers everywhere, nurturing the child inside all of us.

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