Though thousands of miles from his North Pole workshop, world renowned toymaker Santa Claus felt right at home when he visited the Swinomish Community Dinner and Christmas Party Sunday night.
About 500 people — both tribal and non-tribal members — turned out for the festive celebration, which was held at the Wa-Walton Event Center at Swinomish Casino & Lodge.
Despite a heavy workload in anticipation of his round-the-world Christmas Eve flight, Santa appeared rejuvenated at the sight of so many friendly faces.
Peyton Charles, 7, of Swinomish shares her Christmas wish list with Santa Sunday night. Peyton caught up with the jolly old elf during the Swinomish Community Dinner and Christmas Party at the Swinomish Casino & Lodge.
“Never give up,” he implored everyone. “Believe!”
He followed his own advice when confronted with the presence of the green clad Grinch. Santa kept an upbeat demeanor while successfully preventing his longtime nemesis from pilfering the children’s Christmas presents.
Santa posed for photographs with the kids, one of the evening’s many highlights. Prior to the jolly old elf’s arrival, partygoers enjoyed a holiday dinner, received gifts (many of which were donated by Swinomish Casino & Lodge), played bingo, recognized babies born this year, and applauded the 2025 Swinomish Rroyalty.
Later, those with December birthdays were honored and blindfolded contestants took part in a wild dance-off routine—perhaps the hit of the night.
During the four-hour gathering a video of past Swinomish Christmas programs, compiled by tribal archivist Krista Hamburg and her staff, was projected onto a large screen.
Family was the prevailing theme throughout.
“We’re very honored to have everyone here tonight to share a meal and spend time together,” said Swinomish Cultural Events Director and tribal senator Aurelia Bailey.
Swinomish Senate Chair Steve Edwards struck a similar note.
“I want to thank everyone for coming out tonight,” Edwards said. “I also want to thank our team for setting things up tonight. It’s a great day to come together and see the joy in your faces. This is all about loving one another, caring for one another, and sharing this special time with one another.”
In conjunction with the Christmas party, Swinomish tribal member Janice Joe organized a raffle that raised $1,010 for La Conner High School’s class of 2026.
