Holiday travelers at Norfolk International Airport were met with a festive surprise last week when Jeff Hollingsworth, known as Shore Drive Santa, brought Christmas cheer to the bustling lobby. Sporting a traditional red suit and a booming voice, he delighted passersby with his cheerful greetings. “Ho, ho, ho, merry Christmas,” he called out, capturing the attention of many, including Bailey Landry, a Miami-based flight attendant. “Oh my God — Santa! This is so cool,” she exclaimed as she navigated through the airport.
The presence of Shore Drive Santa has become a cherished tradition in the Hampton Roads area as the holiday season approaches. A resident of Virginia Beach, the 66-year-old Hollingsworth has evolved into one of the region’s most popular Santas over the past 15 years. With his snow-white beard and rosy cheeks, his resemblance to the iconic figure has garnered him numerous invitations to events and gatherings.
Hollingsworth initially hesitated to embrace the Santa persona, but encouragement from friends led him to don the suit for the first time during a Christmas open house he and his wife, Cyndy Hollingsworth, hosted. That first transformation, which occurred in Lake Shores off Shore Drive, sparked a new passion. “People said, ‘You’d make a good Santa Claus,’” he recalled. The following year, he purchased a Santa suit, and the magic began.
In the years since, Shore Drive Santa has made appearances at various local events, including games for the Norfolk Admirals hockey team and festive boat rides in the Lynnhaven Inlet. His first visit to a residential care center for children with disabilities left a lasting impression on him. “That just kind of broke my heart. But it was good that I was able to spread some joy to them,” he said.
Hollingsworth’s calendar is packed this December with photo opportunities at local businesses, including multiple visits to Bay Local Eatery. Frank Tiaba, the general manager, praised him, saying, “He’s probably the best Santa I’ve ever seen.” Maintaining his Santa look requires dedication. Hollingsworth carefully grooms his beard and avoids certain favorite foods to keep it pristine. “It’s a constant battle,” he admitted. “I like buffalo wings; just can’t eat them starting November ’til Christmas is over.”
Despite the challenges, Hollingsworth embraces the Santa role wholeheartedly. He aims to maintain a Santa-like physique, balancing his love for food with the demands of his character. “I’d like to be a little thinner, but it works really well for me as Santa Claus,” he explained.
In the off-season, Hollingsworth remains active, sharing his adventures on social media, including visits to assisted living facilities and beach outings in a Santa-themed shirt. Last summer, he even donned a white-trimmed Santa hat while riding a personal watercraft, showcasing his playful spirit and commitment to bringing joy to others.
“I like to see the gleam, the glow, on the faces of the little children,” he said, emphasizing his desire for children to believe in the magic of Santa. As the holiday season continues, Shore Drive Santa remains a beloved figure in Hampton Roads, embodying the spirit of Christmas for all who encounter him.
