SHEBOYGAN — The weekend before Christmas brought hundreds of families to the Sheboygan County Museum, where Ed Henning has been playing Santa Claus for more than 30 years.
Henning has been part of the museum's Holiday Memories exhibit for the last decade, wearing a suit valued at over $1,000 and bringing joy to multiple generations of families.
"I told my wife that I was going to the museum and she says, 'Oh, you're going home with the rest of the relics,'" Henning joked.
Over the years, Henning has built a loyal following of families who return annually for photos with Santa.
"Fourth, fifth and sixth generations," Henning noted.
Watch here: How Sheboygan County Santa Ed Henning continues to spread holiday cheer after more than 30 years.
Jane and David Marusich have made visiting Santa at the museum an annual tradition for their family.
"We started seeing Santa when our oldest one, our daughter Jennifer, was 1-year-old," David said.
The couple continues the tradition with their grown children and grandchildren.
"I love looking at the different pictures every year and watching the kids age, and it's just very sweet," Jane smiled.
The weekend before Christmas is Henning's busiest time. On Saturday alone, an estimated 600 people visited the museum to see Santa.
Despite the large crowds, Henning embraces every interaction with the children.
"The thrill of the kids. I mean, when they come around that corner, their eyes just light up, they get a big smile on their face," Henning said. "That's my payment as far as I'm concerned. I just love to see the kids enjoy it."
For families like the Marusiches, these annual visits represent more than just a photo opportunity.
"For us, it's about spending time with family… and that's what we enjoy most," David nodded.
Families can still visit Santa at the Sheboygan County Museum Monday and Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
"If they've seen the rest and they want to see the best, I'm here," Henning said with a laugh.
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