Santa Claus is often said to have the unique ability to communicate with children worldwide in a very special way. This year, Santa Claus—also known as Santa Charles in this case—brought a special gift of connection by using American Sign Language (ASL) to converse with Deaf children and those who are children at heart at Gaylord Palms in Kissimmee.

Santa Charles, distinguished as one of the few Deaf Santas, engages with young ones in their own language, ASL. This December, he’s been spreading holiday cheer across all five Gaylord Hotels, sharing the enchanting experience of Santa with Deaf communities.

Gaylord Hotels partnered with local deaf communities and organizations, extending an invitation to experience the magic of Deaf Santa Claus. This thoughtful initiative, which originated at the Gaylord National Resort, has now expanded nationwide and included Gaylord Palms in Osceola County, fostering a warm, inclusive holiday spirit on December 11.

“We are excited to help make Christmas wishes come true at our resorts this year with Santa Charles,” says John Adams, vice president and managing director of Gaylord Hotels at Marriott International. “After seeing the joy he brought to our guests at Gaylord National Resort last year, we decided to bring this special experience to all our resorts this holiday season. Gaylord Hotels is dedicated to creating a sense of belonging and inclusivity for everyone at our resorts, and hosting Santa Charles helps reinforce that belief and commitment.”

Santa Charles, an alumnus of the International University of Santa Claus, feels deeply connected to his guests, sharing an authentic understanding of the Deaf experience. Accompanied by his wife, who plays Mrs. Claus and is also Deaf, they ensure a special encounter for every child.

Even though Santa and his elves have already paid a visit to Gaylord Palms in Kissimmee, visitors can still enjoy “ICE!” , a wonderland of sculptures that transforms two million pounds of ice into beloved holiday scenes through January 3rd. Click here for tickets and more information.