Holiday travelers at Norfolk International Airport were greeted by a familiar figure last week: Jeff Hollingsworth, known as Shore Drive Santa. Dressed in his vibrant red suit and sporting a snow-white beard, he delighted onlookers with his booming “Ho, ho, ho, merry Christmas!” The moment brought joy to many, including Bailey Landry, a flight attendant from Miami, who exclaimed, “Oh my God — Santa! This is so cool.”
Hollingsworth, a native of Virginia Beach, has become a beloved holiday icon in the Hampton Roads area. His transformation into Santa Claus began approximately 15 years ago after encouragement from friends. Originally a retired real estate manager, he embraced the role full-time, much to the delight of the local community.
From Open House to Holiday Icon
The evolution from a simple Christmas gathering to a sought-after Santa began with an open house hosted by Hollingsworth and his wife, Cyndy Hollingsworth, in their home off Shore Drive. The couple welcomed nearly 100 visitors each year, and it was during one of these events that the idea to don a Santa suit was born. After wearing a shirt resembling Santa’s outfit, guests suggested he would make a perfect Santa Claus.
The following year, Hollingsworth purchased an official Santa suit and made a grand return to the open house, leaving a lasting impression on those who attended. His first experience visiting a residential care center for children with disabilities profoundly impacted him. “That just kind of broke my heart,” he reflected, “But it was good that I was able to spread some joy to them.”
Since then, he has participated in various festive events, including riding a Zamboni at a Norfolk Admirals hockey game and appearing on a Virginia Pilot Association boat in the Lynnhaven Inlet. Occasionally, Cyndy joins him as Mrs. Claus, though she insists that the magic belongs to him. “He’s the one that creates the magic,” she said.
Hollingsworth’s calendar is packed this December with opportunities for photos and celebrations at numerous local businesses. Frank Tiaba, general manager of Bay Local Eatery, praised him, stating, “He’s probably the best Santa I’ve ever seen.”
The Commitment Behind the Character
Maintaining the Santa look requires significant effort. Hollingsworth diligently grooms his beard and avoids certain foods to keep it pristine during the holiday season. “It’s a constant battle,” he noted, explaining that favorites like buffalo wings and hamburgers are off-limits until the season ends.
Despite the challenges, he strives to maintain a Santa-like physique. “I’d like to be a little thinner, but it works really well for me as Santa Claus,” he said. He remains active throughout the year, sharing updates on social media, including a memorable visit to an assisted living facility for a “Christmas in July” event and enjoying time on the beach in a Santa-themed surfing shirt.
His passion for the role shines through in his interactions with children. “I like to see the gleam, the glow, on the faces of the little children,” he expressed. “I want them to believe in the magic of Santa.” Hollingsworth’s dedication to spreading joy during the holiday season has solidified his place as a cherished figure in the Hampton Roads community.
