Photographs selected by Allison Scates Text by Tracy Scott ForsonJolly Old Elf. Chris Kringle. Santa Claus. He has many names, but one timeless mission: providing toys to good boys and girls of the world. Once a year, he boards his sleigh to take to the sky with his flying reindeer, and that day, December 25, is drawing near. Children write letters, visit local malls and spread the word to their parentswho then relay the messages the Santaabout what they want under the tree.Some call it the most wonderful time of the year. These 15 images from the Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest help convey why. Take a look. When its not the holiday season, Santa Claus, and his many impersonators, can be found living life among the public, checking whos naughty and whos nice. Benjamin Albright, North Carolina, 2022 Santa Claus observes his sleigh from afar, likely wondering why a single horse has replaced his reindeer. Irina Omelkovich, Russia, 2018 The jolly old elf isnt always ho-ho-ho-ing. Sometimes hes sitting quietly waiting for the next child to approach with a wish list. Eduarda Cota, Brazil, 2020 North Pole resident Santa Claus is usually associated with cold weather, but hes just as popular in warm climates where cacti grow as he is among the polar bears. Claudia Henze, Bonaire, 2017 Its no wonder that Mr. Claus enjoys a good Coca-Cola, a brand credited with creating an iconic likeness of him thats spanned generations. Amber Parker, Tennessee, 2008 The annual SantaCon events welcome thousands of elf enthusiasts to Portland, New York City, Las Vegas and other cities worldwide to help ring in the holiday. Erin McCown, Oregon, 2008 Mr. and Mrs. Claus arent exactly incognito as they observe churchgoers whom they might be able to add to the nice list. Doug Ross, Indiana, 2021 Sleighs arent Santas only mode of transportation. Here, he boards a holiday train to visit young passengers. Jessica Helgesen, Colorado, 2019 Who needs mistletoe? Miniature Santa and his wife share a smooch near a finely decorated Christmas tree. Michelle Hass, Idaho, 2018 A photo of Santa Claus hangs over the fireplace in a room that hes obviously visited, leaving toys and gifts. Jennetta Hill, Georgia, 2017 In a spin on the Nativity story, Santa Claus stands over the manger with the Virgin Mary looking on nearby. Natasha Snyder, Texas, 2019 A patriotic Santa Claus impersonator needs a bit more weight to adequately mimic St. Nicks physique. Ian Wuilleumier, Massachusetts, 2009 Santa Claus is ready and waiting to hear what you want this Christmasjust make sure its small enough to fit down a chimney. Kimberly Draughn, Louisiana, 2021Get the latest Travel & Culture stories in your inbox.