Roaring Fork’s Bruce Humphrey: Spreading holiday cheer as Santa Claus for a decade

Taylor Cramer/Post Independent
For Bruce Humphrey, donning the red suit and white beard is more than just a seasonal gig.
The Pueblo native has been dressing up as Santa Claus for the past 10 years, bringing joy to children and families throughout the Roaring Fork Valley.
Humphrey’s journey as Santa began in Pueblo, his hometown, where a friend asked him to fill in as Santa for a school event.
“She said all I had to do was hand out candy canes and say merry Christmas,” Humphrey said. “I hemmed and hawed, but eventually, I gave it a try. Who knew it would lead to this?”
Every year now, Humphrey and his wife make the trip from Pueblo to the valley a week before Thanksgiving. They settle into an Airbnb and dive headfirst into a whirlwind of events that span from Carbondale to Glenwood Springs and beyond.
“We stay through Christmas, sometimes just a bit after,” Humphrey said. “It’s five busy weeks, but we love it. The valley feels like a second home.”
Humphrey’s packed schedule includes appearances at tree lightings, hotel events, private parties, and even intimate home visits.
“Every year, I add new events,” Humphrey said. “This season, I worked with the Glenwood Chamber for their holiday celebration, which was a great addition.”
Humphrey’s natural appearance is one of the reasons he’s so beloved in the role. With his real white beard and hair, children recognize him as Santa even when he’s off duty.
“I was walking out of Walmart in red street clothes, and a little girl looked at me and said, ‘Santa!'” Humphrey said. “Her dad asked if I could talk to her for a minute. It’s moments like that that make this so special.”
The magic Humphrey creates isn’t limited to the Roaring Fork Valley. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he found himself stranded in the Philippines with his wife, unable to return to the United States. Despite being far from home and without his usual Santa gear, he improvised.
“My wife made me a simple suit from red fabric and black pants,” Humphrey said. “We handed out candy to kids in villages, and they followed me around, calling out ‘Santa!’ It was unforgettable.”
Tammy Baar, owner of Kidtoons Productions, has worked with Humphrey for the past seven years and considers him an essential part of her team.
“He’s fabulous,” Baar said. “He’s kind, professional, and absolutely looks the part. I have clients who insist on having him as their Santa every year.”
Beyond the appearances and accolades, it’s the small, heartfelt moments that keep Humphrey coming back each year. He recalls a Christmas dinner at a Crested Butte country club where a little girl surprised him with a handmade gift.
“She handed me a painted clothespin she’d turned into a nutcracker,” Humphrey said. “I told her it was beautiful, and she said, ‘No, Santa, I made it for you.’ I still have it to this day.”
For Humphrey, the joy of being Santa isn’t just about spreading holiday cheer — it’s also about keeping the magic alive for children.
“The little ones have such big imaginations,” Humphrey said. “They ask about the North Pole, the elves, or the reindeer. I don’t have a script — I just go with the flow and try to make it as real as possible for them.”
Even the trickier questions, like requests for puppies or Ferraris, don’t faze him.
“When kids ask for pets, I tell them I need to check with mom and dad first,” Humphrey said. “Parents usually appreciate that answer.”
Playing Santa over the years has changed how Humphrey views the holiday season. What was once just another day has become one of the most meaningful times of the year.
“It’s a huge part of my life now,” Humphrey said. “Christmas is about family, giving, and creating memories. Being Santa allows me to be part of that for so many people.”
Humphrey’s custom-made Santa suit, crafted by a friend, adds a personal touch to his appearances.
“I’ve had so many compliments on it,” Humphrey said. “It’s handmade and really special. I’m even considering asking her to make me another one.”
As Christmas approaches, Humphrey will continue making his rounds, from breakfasts with Santa to private visits, ensuring every child he meets experiences a bit of holiday magic.
“It’s all about the kids,” Humphrey said. “Seeing their faces light up, hearing their stories, and being part of their Christmas memories, it’s an honor.”

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