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For some adults, Santa Claus is no longer just a figure from a childhood storybook — he has become a fully conscious object of attraction.

In recent years, psychologists and entertainment industry experts have increasingly discussed the phenomenon of “Santaphilia” — an attraction to the Santa Claus persona. And it’s not just isolated cases: it’s emerging as a recognizable cultural trend, especially during the holiday season, reports the New York Post.

“A grown man with a beard and presents”

25-year-old content creator Kassidie Kosa says she first felt drawn to Santa as a child after watching Tim Allen in The Santa Clause movies. Over time, this childhood fascination evolved into a mature admiration.

“It’s always a grown man with a nice beard — and he gives gifts. What’s better than that?” Kosa explains. “And the ‘dad bod’ is next level. I don’t need abs. Give me a belly.”

She adds that her tastes have only “matured” over time: gray hair, confidence, authority, and the sense that the man is in charge have become key factors in his appeal.

The psychology behind the attraction

Psychologists note that Santa’s appeal lies less in appearance than in his archetype.

“Santa is a figure who evaluates behavior, separates people into ‘naughty’ and ‘nice,’ and distributes rewards and punishments,” says Dr. Justin Lehmiller, senior research fellow at the Kinsey Institute and host of the Sex and Psychology podcast. “For some adults, this can be an erotically charged image, including in roleplay contexts.”

Santa also embodies qualities many people seek in a partner: generosity, stability, care, and emotional security.

“Santa off duty”

47-year-old business consultant Melissa Rosen recalls her fascination with Santa beginning in her teenage years, after spotting an off-duty Santa in a mall.

“I saw Santa taking a break, smoking a cigarette and having a beer in a service alley,” she recalls. “I thought, ‘Oh my gosh — Santa off duty.’ I wanted to know what he’s really like.”

Rosen prefers a leaner version of Santa — bearded, with large hands and a strong build, but without excess weight. She used to make it a tradition to sit on Santa’s lap with friends every holiday season, though now she behaves more discreetly as a single mother.

She also notes that, at her matchmaking agency, clients describing their ideal partner often end up describing Santa Claus — sometimes without even realizing it.

From fantasy to cultural trend

Interest in Santa is also reflected in online trends. Adult websites report that searches for “Santa” more than double in December, particularly for holiday roleplay scenarios and “naughty” vs. “nice” Santa themes.

Even the actors who portray Santa notice increased attention from adult fans.

61-year-old Paul Mason, a former New York model known as Fashion Santa, gained popularity online for his stylish interpretation of the classic figure.

“There’s a bit of sexiness in it, but it’s all tongue-in-cheek,” he says. “It’s playful and ironic. People enjoy it, and I don’t see anything offensive about it.”

Innocent fantasy or part of culture?

Experts emphasize that this isn’t about breaking social taboos, but rather a mature reimagining of a familiar cultural symbol.

“Santa is about care, celebration, and the feeling that someone is looking out for you,” says 35-year-old stylist Amanda DiChiara. “It creates a warm, almost spiritual atmosphere. And yes, there’s something attractive about a big, full-bodied man taking care of you.”

For some, the attraction is a seasonal fantasy or a joke; for others, it’s a persistent type of affection. But one thing is clear: Santa Claus is no longer exclusively a children’s character — he has found a new and unexpected place in adult culture.

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