Welcome to Santa Claus, Indiana.

David Williams

Welcome to Santa Claus, Indiana: a real-life town that celebrates Christmas all year long.

The towns first tourist attraction, Santas Candy Castle, opened in the 1930s and the rest is history.

A short brick building is labeled “Santa Claus, Indiana Town Hall,” with a large statue out front depicting Santa holding a gift bag.

The Santa statue outside of the Santa Claus, Indiana town hall.Credit:David Williams

And its not all whimsy.

Heres what you oughta know before visiting Santa Claus, Indiana.

Its also known for a special beverage that fits right in with the towns theme: frozen hot chocolate.

An exterior shot shows the nondescript red and white post office of Santa Claus, Indiana. A life-sized statue of Santa on the front lawn is the distinguishing feature.

Over 20,000 letters addressed to Santa move through the Santa Claus Post Office each year.David Williams

Of course, Santa Claus is also a popular destination during the holiday season.

Thunderbird roller coaster at Holiday World in Santa Claus, Indiana

The Thunderbird, a roller coaster at Holiday World.Courtesy of Spencer County Visitors Bureau /SantaClausInd.org

Night view of a light show in the town of Santa Claus, featuring Christmas string lights, giant snowflakes, and a large Santa all outlined in colorful lights

Holiday lights in the town of Santa Claus, Indiana.Courtesy of Spencer County Visitors Bureau /SantaClausInd.org

A crowd gathers outside a red and white building labeled “the Santa Claus Christmas Store,” where in the parking lot, a giant postcard stands, made out to Santa.

The Santa Claus Christmas Store.David Williams