In the heart of our picturesque small town, there resides a Santa Claus whose love for his role transcends the bounds of the North Pole. This jolly and spirited figure brings the magic of Christmas to life for our close-knit Aiken community, and his commitment to his craft is nothing short of heartwarming.
Robby Bowles began his journey as Santa Claus rather unknowingly when he agreed to participate in No Shave November. His beard came in completely white, and many of his employees and nursing home residents where he was an Administrator encouraged him to dress up as Santa Claus. Robby agreed good-naturedly and performed for several residents in nursing homes to help spread Christmas cheer.
This simple one-time act to brighten the lives of many seniors ignited a passion in Robby, and his transformation into a full-time Santa Claus began. In 2020, Santa Robby made his official debut in local Christmas parades. He also started working with the Aiken Downtown Development walking around downtown to visit and take pictures with adults and children.
What makes this small-town Santa stand out is the personal touch he adds to every interaction, whether with children or adults. He remembers names and listens attentively to their wishes, but most importantly, he makes each person feel special. When asked what his most memorable Santa experience was, he replied, “Being Santa is a mission for me. Last year, a lot of adults would come up and ask me to pray for them or their spouse or their family. I have had a lot of wonderful experiences with children, but having the opportunity to pray with these adults was incredible and truly touched my heart.”
Santa Robby takes his responsibilities to heart. He continues to visit the elderly in the area bringing them comfort, company, and a hearty “ho, ho, ho.” His warm presence illuminates Hopelands Gardens even brighter than their Christmas lights display as he listens to every request from his holiday visitors. Santa Robby has taken his role so seriously that he recently attended a Christmas performer workshop in Alabama hosted by a former Marine Corps Sergeant, Santa True, that focused on how to prepare for the role of Santa Claus physically and emotionally.
In a world that often seems divided, we can learn from Santa Robby’s mission to inspire that the holiday season should be a time of unity, love and compassion that lasts the whole year through. Santa Robby shows us the beauty of a simpler, more meaningful way of life, where the greatest gift of all is the love we give to one another.
What makes this small-town Santa stand out is the personal touch he adds to every interaction, whether with children or adults.