A holiday tribute to a once-in-a-lifetime Oklahoma legend
As the holiday season unfolds, the spirit of giving and joy is intertwined with
the memory of a remarkable figure in Oklahoma’s community – Santa Blair. Known for his vibrant personality and trailblazing representation, Kenny Blair brought a unique charm to the role of Santa Claus, reflecting the beauty of diversity as the first Black Santa many had seen. This holiday season, as we celebrate traditions and cherished memories, we honor the legacy of Santa Blair — also a father, grandfather, teacher and coach — whose impact resonates deeply within the hearts of local families and those around the world. Join us in remembering the joy he spread and the magic he created, ensuring his spirit continues to inspire generations to come.
Perhaps for you and your loved ones Christmas has already come to life via a variety of decorations or your favorite holiday-scented candles that bring life to each and every room the smells drift into. It’s even possible you’re already parading around the house singing a number of Mariah Carey Christmas songs or humming Vince Guaraldi’s Charlie Brown Christmas tune.
It could also be that you just enjoy perusing Christmas in the aisles of your favorite store, already fully in the holiday spirit. Whatever the case, tis the season for many of us — which brings us to
the season’s undisputed, most recognizable elf of all elves … Santa Claus.
And in Oklahoma, we were lucky to have a Santa who reflected something many had never seen before: a real life Santa Claus with brown skin and fashion sense that could lead the holiday look on any runway!
Santa Blair was style, fun, entertainment, joy, love and holiday cheer wrapped up in one tall order.
As we step into this holiday season, it’s imperative to remember what Santa Blair did for this community. He brought forth representation that weighs heavily on the Black community and communities of color in general.
Before his untimely death earlier this year, Kenny Blair touted quite the resume.
Known most recently for his “North Pole Drip” and his interaction with children all over the country during the holidays, Blair’s off-season was pretty expansive as well. His titles ranged from teacher and mentor to professional football player and coach. He was also a father, grandfather and hero to those who knew him.
He worked for the Disney Institute and trained huge names in pro sports, like Shaquille O’Neil and Tiger Woods.
His legacy has roots that continue to grow – in stories and pictures shared with friends, family and strangers.
Blair is the father of six. His daughter, Ryan, shared the family’s plans to continue what her father started. While 
the family absolutely feels the love from the community and beyond this holiday season, that warmth is coupled with sadness.
“This time of year does bring a mix of emotions for us, while we feel the warmth of all the wonderful memories,
there’s also a sense of loss,” said Ryan Blair. “Our goal is to lean each other and on God and [to] remember his laughter and kindness … to keep his spirit alive in our hearts. Remembering the joy he brought to so many around the world gives me joy.”
Santa Blair is remembered for the many smiles he brought to children but also for his fashion-forward take on what Santa suits should look like. Blair designed each and every one himself. His family is still deciding what to do with the suits.
“Each one represents so much of his heart for people, especially children, and the magic he brought to his role as Santa Blair,” said Ryan Blair. “He designed all his suits and poured so much love into each one. My goal is to have the suits placed in museums for people to admire. The African American Museum in D.C. is my top pick.”
While Santa Blair can never be replaced, there is some talk about continuing his legacy in the way of another Black Santa.
“Keeping Black Santa in Oklahoma City would mean a lot to us and the community,” said Ryan Blair. “While no decisions have been made yet, we are open to exploring how his legacy can continue. Our goal is to make sure the joy he spreads [keeps] reaching people, especially kids who saw themselves in Santa for the first time through him.”
Don’t be surprised if a melanin Mrs. Claus starts appearing at some point as well!
“I would love to one day be in the role of Mrs. Claus because there aren’t a lot of African American women in that role,” said Ryan Blair. “I think my dad would love to see me in that role.”
Ryan and her dad were also planning a children’s book that she hopes to see published.
Santa Blair may be gone in the physical, but his spirit is very much alive. His family is working to make sure his
special brand of magic and inclusivity remain for many years to come.
Happy Holiday to you and your families, and in the spirit of Santa, and Santa Blair in particular,
Merry Christmas to ALL.
ALL shades.
ALL colors.
ALL creeds.
ALL races.
And to ALL a good night.
Mecca Rayne is an Oklahoma City mom and journalist who enjoys exploring our city with her children. Lead photo by withunmind photography. Special thanks to Ryan Blair for the family photos.
