Tom Long, 47, has played Santa since his early 20s, when he first applied at a mall in Ohio. He hopes his sons will someday carry on the tradition.

For the past 10 years, Long has been [...]]]>

Tom Long, 47, has played Santa since his early 20s, when he first applied at a mall in Ohio. He hopes his sons will someday carry on the tradition.

For the past 10 years, Long has been the jolly old man in the red suit at the inn. This is the 20th year that the Founders Illumination has ushered in the start of the holiday season in Hampton Roads.

The tradition kicks off at noon Sunday and runs until 8 p.m. At 6 p.m., the grounds transform into a magical winter wonderland when thousands of white lights begin a sparkle that lasts throughout the holiday season.

Free and open to the public, the event has always been a gift to the community, said Jean Vinson, public relations coordinator for The Founders Inn and Spa, which is now under the management of West Paces Hotel Group.

“The kids just love it; they get stars in their eyes,” said Vinson, adding that organizers expect about 2,000 people to attend.

Each year, attendees look up in awe at the 35-foot Christmas tree in the atrium while musical groups such as St. Gregory the Great Catholic School Children’s Choir, Young Musician’s Middle School, Providence Presbyterian Church Hand Bell Choir, Norfolk Christian Windsong and more perform beneath it.

The activities, inside and out, are for young and old. They include: a marionette show by Spectrum Puppets, reading of the Christmas story by Pat Robertson, face painting, Singing Santa Claus, Philippine Cultural Dancers, Rhythm of Ireland Dancers and carriage rides.

This year, three new acts join the mix of entertainment: a yo-yo artist, Krendl the Magician and toy soldier stilt walkers. But, the one familiar face everyone comes to see and talk with, of course, is Santa Claus.

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I will truly miss all the fantastic residents of Portsmouth, as well as the incredible staff at the museum and hope to [...]]]> Due to unforeseen budgetary cuts, we are sad to announce that the Singing Santa Claus will not be able to visit the Courthouse Galleries at the beautiful Coleman Collections in wonderful downtown Portsmouth, VA.

I will truly miss all the fantastic residents of Portsmouth, as well as the incredible staff at the museum and hope to see you in the near future. Keep a song in your heart and Merry Christmas one and all!

Singing Santa Claus

The Jim Yellig Santa Claus Workshop blog

It is with great pleasure that we introduce Santa Tom Long to the Jim Yellig Santa Claus Workshop team. Santa Tom, also known as The Singing [...]]]> The Singing Santa Claus will perform at the Jim Yellig Santa Claus Workshop in Santa Claus Indiana on April 19, 2012.

The Jim Yellig Santa Claus Workshop blog

It is with great pleasure that we introduce Santa Tom Long to the Jim Yellig Santa Claus Workshop team. Santa Tom, also known as The Singing Santa Claus, will be working with our production team for the Workshop’s opening theatrical production.

A little bit about Santa Tom Long…

Tom Long, The Singing Santa Claus, is a professional entertainer, experienced actor, and an accomplished baritone. He is a graduate of the Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School and an original member of the ClausNet. The Singing Santa Claus has appeared at numerous tree lightings and corporate events.

Tom has over 25 years’ experience in the red suit and has appeared on local and national TV including “America’s Got Talent.” He has also appeared in the Virginia Beach Holiday Parade, at the Marine Corp Exchange in Norfolk, and Breakfast with Santa at Pembroke Meadows, Holland, Glenwood, Butts Road Primary, Cook, and Birdneck Elementary Schools. His constant ambition to be the best Santa Claus ever is a constant work in progress.

The Singing Santa Claus is now on Facebook! Please surf on over to Facebook and click on the Like button!

To celebrate, Santa has launched a brand new website! Visitors to the newly designed website can learn more about Singing Santa, view pictures, watch videos, check on Santa’s appearances, and much more!

To learn more about Singing Santa, visit [...]]]>
This year, 2010, marks Singing Santa’s Silver Anniversary — 25 years of service!

To celebrate, Santa has launched a brand new website! Visitors to the newly designed website can learn more about Singing Santa, view pictures, watch videos, check on Santa’s appearances, and much more!

To learn more about Singing Santa, visit the Singing Santa Gallery.

If you would like to find out if Santa is available for a visit with you, contact Santa’s Executive Assistant, Tom Long.