Each year, when the air cools and Christmas lights begin to twinkle, Santa Claus must make an important decision: appointing his most trusted neighborhood representatives to be his special helpers.
For the past four years, the honor has fallen to Roger and Kathy Balettie, who turn their Belterra home into an enchanted winter wonderland and cheerfully step into the roles of Santa and his elf.
What began as a simple gesture—Roger and Kathy dressing up for their own grandchildren to capture that Christmas magic—has become an annual tradition of welcoming the whole neighborhood to share the joy.
For one special day each December, the couple invites Dripping Springs to join them in their front yard for a festive (and free) celebration. Visitors are greeted by Santa’s elves and treated to candy canes, hot cocoa, and a warm, one-on-one experience with Santa himself. Kids of all ages—even pets—can snap their own pictures with the big guy without the stress of long lines or pricey photo packages. The Baletties encourage their guests to take their time, enjoy the moment, and connect with friends and neighbors. And even on a balmy winter day in Texas, there’s a good chance of snow!
For Roger and Kathy, the experience is all about the magic. When he dons the red suit, Roger feels that he becomes jolly old Saint Nick himself. “I think I’ve got a little touch of that magic when I put the suit on,” he says.
And wearing the Santa suit is a responsibility Roger doesn’t take lightly. “It’s not just a costume; it’s a legend,” he explains. “You are entrusted to be Santa Claus.”
“Santa really can be magic,” he continues. “Santa is a presence that captures the spirit of Christmas.”
Giving others this precious gift of wonder is the reason Kathy and Roger put their hearts into the occasion year after year. “The whole purpose of the season is giving. Being able to give memories is really what we’re doing,” Roger explains. “I tell the parents, ‘The photos are for you; the experience and memories are for the kids.’”
The truth is, many parents are just as excited as their children, eager to pass on the kind of enchanting experience they remember from their own childhoods. “It’s about seeing the reflection of the magic in their kids’ eyes,” Roger shares. “It’s about making sure that sense of wonder lives on.”
He says it’s especially moving to watch parents during those moments: “They’re seeing their child have this magical experience that, honestly, you don’t get a lot of anymore.”
And while the Baletties are making spirits bright by creating treasured holiday memories, they emphasize that the event gives something back to them as well. “I think we receive as much as we give,” says Roger.
He describes the joy of sharing in the children’s delight: “Sometimes they see me and they’re all excited, but it’s just as magical when they’re hesitant or shy. For us to be a part of that is really special.”
Kathy feels it too. Whether she’s handing out candy canes or encouraging a timid child, she feels blessed to help create merry moments for everyone who visits. “We love little kids, and I love giving out cocoa and little gifts,” she says. “I have so much fun just bringing the magic.”
At this most wonderful time of the year, grab the family and swing by for a cup of cheer with neighbors and friends. It’s the perfect way to start a holly jolly tradition and make some unforgettable memories. Santa Claus is coming to town on Saturday, December 20, from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 210 Harris Drive in Belterra. Don’t miss the magic!