This year’s Photos with Black Santa comes with a heartfelt update for our community. Our beloved Santa Yak, who has poured his joy, warmth, and magic into this tradition since 2020, passed away in September. For many families, he wasn’t just “Santa”, he was a trusted, familiar face who made their children feel seen, celebrated, and deeply loved. We know this news may come as a surprise, and we want to acknowledge the emotional impact it may have on the families who looked forward to seeing him year after year. His spirit, kindness, and unmatched ability to bring joy into a room will forever be a part of our holiday legacy.

We are deeply grateful to Santa Yak’s family for sharing him with us over the years and supporting this tradition from the very beginning. Because of him, countless families now have cherished photos and memories that will last a lifetime. While we miss him dearly, we are honored to continue the Photos with Black Santa tradition in his name, carrying forward the representation, community, and holiday magic he embodied so beautifully. Thank you for trusting us through this transition and for holding space to honor a man who gave our community so much joy.

in loving memory of santa yak