Santa Claus/ Papá Noel

Based in Rialto CA

I am Rafael Roel best known as Santa Claus/ Papá Noél a real-bearded Santa Claus who has been joyfully portraying Santa for more than five years. What began as bringing Christmas cheer to my family and friends on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day has grown into a heartfelt mission of spreading the spirit of Christmas year-round. I’ve had the honor of visiting foster homes, senior living communities, elementary schools, hospitals, libraries, city toy drives, and Christmas giveaways. Each Thanksgiving, I participate in the City of Rialto’s Turkey Giveaway, and during Christmas I share in church “Posadas.” I’ve also joined city backpack giveaways for children, marched in the Highland 4th of July Parade, and appeared as Santa for Bass Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga and the Downtown Santa Monica Third Street Promenade. One of my greatest joys was taking part in a magical tree lighting and photo event in Tijuana, Mexico, for the Christmas Dreams Experience. All year long, I visit elementary schools to share stories about the importance of staying in school, listening to parents and teachers, and being respectful, responsible, kind, and safe. These lessons are woven into magical storytelling that inspires children to believe in themselves while keeping the Christmas spirit alive no matter the season. As Santa, I believe in spreading joy, kindness, and a touch of enchantment to children and families of all ages. Being bilingual in English and Spanish allows me to connect with diverse audiences and bring the magic of Christmas to even more hearts. In addition to live appearances, I share stories and holiday cheer on my YouTube channel, Storytime with Santa / Cuentos con Papá Noel. Through bilingual storytelling, I encourage children to read, believe in themselves, and hold on to the timeless magic of Christmas. My channel brings families together with heartwarming stories, festive traditions, and joyful messages that inspire kindness, hope, and the belief that the Christmas spirit can be alive every day of the year. I am honored to continue my journey as a Santa Claus ambassador, creating magical moments and carrying forward the legacy of joy, happiness, love, and the true spirit of Christmas—during the holiday season and all year round